Many, many people who don't have to worry about essentials such as war and clean water are currently looking down at their (post Christmas) bloated gut and designing a full set of nutrition centred New Year's resolutions. I don't have the highest of hopes that most of the resolutions will be met, and that's coming from me, the (almost) eternal optimist. Research tends to back this up - the enthusiasm of the new year tends to wane a number of weeks in, as life gets on top of us again.
I wanted to offer a suggestion of my own personal favourite resolution; something I think is realistic and truly beneficial for health.
A doable, difference-making resolution: Make half of your plate at lunch or dinner leafy greens: you can steam, boil or saute some greens or simply open a bag of baby leaves and empty them on your plate - it all works. When half of your plate is full of greens you're automatically regulating your starchy carb and protein intake, preventing excess - this kind of plate will help to ensure you're eating a diet high in plant based foods; fundamentally important for health.
Of course all vegetables are wonderful, so why do I emphasise the leafy greens?
The vast majority of people in our societies have a diet deficient in these supremely important vegetables. Leafy greens are packed with vitamins, phytonutrients, minerals and fibre. There are so many types to choose from so rotating through them on a weekly basis is not a problem. Examples of leafy greens include kale, chard, spinach, lettuce, cabbage, broccoli and so on.
Greens prevent disease and make you feel well. Is this a resolution you think you can do?