How To Successfully Eat Less Junk Food!

Before I get started, I should say that there's really no easy solution to eating healthy. It's simply something that takes a little time and determination, but is also something that every single person can achieve! Once I started on my own health and fitness journey, the less junk food I ate, the less I craved it. I've also gained a better relationship with my body and I never want to harm it by eating artificial anything (except for Chocolate Oranges at Christmas time, they're a given.)

I'm yet to find someone who is perfect when it comes to their diet. But I can tell you that the best part about having less junk food in your life, is that it taste so much better when you do have it. These suggestions might not work for everyone, but in my own personal experience they have worked wonderfully for keeping me on the right track with my eating.

Live 80/20

 You've probably heard this method of eating been thrown about by health experts, and it's something that I personally strive for everyday. The idea is that 80% of diet is filled with healthier options, but the last 20% can be whatever you like. You can eat well all day and then have some ice cream for dessert! It means that you can still have your favorite treats, just in moderation. If you're looking to lose weight, or just have a healthier diet, this is a great option to try. I swear some days I can be more 60/40, but at least I try, right?

Never go cold turkey 

You know how when someone would take something away from you when you were younger, and it made you want it even more? The same thing applies to food. I see a lot people try to go without chocolate for a month and it never seems to end well (but well done if you do it!)
The most successful way of eating healthier is to simply cut back on bad foods slowly, rather than cutting out of your diet entirely. Just have one biscuit with your afternoon cup of tea instead of two, or limit your takeaways to once a week. Having a couple of pieces of chocolate at night-time instead of none will help you eat better in the long run.

Simply don't buy it 

This has been one of the most successful ways I've been able to stay away from junk food. I stopped buying a packet of Pringles or punnets of ice cream in the weekly shop. If it's in the cupboards or the fridge, I'm gonna be pigging out on it at some point. Instead I replaced these with healthier options that I would enjoy when I felt like a snack. Like my favorite fruits, flavored rice cakes, nut bars, and Greek yogurt. Avoid the junk food isle at all costs and find clean snacks that you'll enjoy munching on instead. If it's not in your cupboard, you can't eat it! Simple.

Take a different route home

I think we all know the struggle of driving home from work on an empty stomach and passing our favorite food outlets on the way. You don't need that kind of temptation on your journey to a healthier you. If it's possible, drive or walk a different way to avoid a cheeky trip to the cake shop. If this isn't an option, carry a healthy snack with you for such an occasion. Munch on a protein bar and walk passed the lure of junk food and repeat to yourself "I don't need it!" You have the will power, I promise you. 

Prep your lunches  

This was always my biggest test when it came to eating healthy. It's too tempting to go and buy some kind of junk food for lunch that's quick and easy. If you struggle with this, then I would highly recommend having a packed lunch you can take with you all week. You could buy wholemeal wraps and fill it with delicious ingredients the night before. I personally love making a big stir-fry of brown rice and veggies, ready to go in containers for the week ahead. Preparation is key and if you have something delicious to take with you to work/school, then you won't be tempted by a guilty trip to McDonald's.


Use My Fitness Pal to track your calories

If you're serious about cutting back on unhealthy foods, then tracking your daily calorie intake and exercise is a brilliant way to keep yourself motivated. I don't use this app so much now, but when I did, it was a major eye-opener into how many calories were in certain foods. And I lost weight! It still makes me stop and check the back info on products to see what the intake is like (always watch for high sugars.) When you have a daily goal to hit, it makes choosing healthier options a lot easier and you can still have a treat if you have done well! It's an easy to use app and it can really teach you a lot about nutrition.


Drink more water 

This is a win-win method for anyone looking to eat and feel better. Set yourself an aim to drink 4-5 litres of water each day. An easy way to do this is by keeping a drink bottle with you at all times and sipping it throughout the day. You'll drink more than you think! By filling up on water, you'll be less likely to binge on unhealthy snacks and won't have to have eat so much at meal times. Also if you're properly hydrated, then you'll be less likely to get headaches and binge on food to make you feel better.
 


Don't be lazy, is only up to you

The realist thing about eating is that we are all responsible for what goes into our bodies. Relationships with food can be difficult, and I myself am guilty of turning to it when I'm stressed or upset. But at the end of the day if you are unhappy with how you're eating, the only person who can turn it around is you. If you want to feel better about your diet, then make the commitment and remember how awesome you feel for sticking to it.


I hope that was helpful for you guys! I know it's hard to cut out certain foods, but with good habits you'll be feeling healthier than ever!

How do you limit junk food in your diet?
Steph x.