THE task of swapping your unhealthy eating habits for healthy ones can feel, at the very least, overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part about getting started is breaking the process down into manageable pieces. Here are some bite-sized pieces to help you take the first few steps toward a lifetime of healthier eating:

The lay of the land

When shopping for food, remember that grocery stores are primarily laid out with the most healthy and nutritious foods located around the store¡¯s perimeter. The inside aisles are where you'll generally find foods high in fat, sugar and sodium and lower in nutrients.

Uncontrollable urges

Impulse buying leads to many unhealthy food purchases. Shopping on an empty stomach and without a list are two habits that lead to impulsive purchases. To lessen the chances of unhealthy impulse buys, eat a nutritious snack prior to shopping, make a grocery list and stick to it.

Be natural

A good rule of thumb is to try and eat food that is as close to its "natural" state as possible. For example, steamed red potatoes are much healthier (and less expensive) than a prepackaged side dish made of potatoes.

Read the label

Unfortunately, the naming and packaging of many food items can be deceiving in terms of what you "think" you're getting. Knowing how to read and interpret the food label is the best way to ensure you're getting what you want.

The last point is that unless specified by your doctor for medical reasons, healthy eating is not about following a rigid, predetermined menu. Remember, variety is the spice of life and ensures a well-balanced diet.

 
Editor: Wings