To foster a healthy lifestyle, a healthy diet is essential. It is a complete myth to believe that if you exercise regularly then you could eat whatever you want.

But if you eat like crap then it is going to reflect on your physique and overall wellbeing, both physically and mentally, even if you workout vigorously everyday. What’s more? If you eat healthier, you will feel better about yourself, your weight will reduce for the better. You will live healthier and lead a more fulfilling life.

You have a higher chance of becoming obese or overweight if you neglect healthy eating habits. And you could also become more prone to depression and other life-threatening illnesses such as cancer and heart failure. Enough reasons to live healthier?

Below are the 5 basic guidelines to follow in order to maintaining a healthier lifestyle:

– Eat a variety of foods: It is proper and necessary to incorporate not just plenty of fruits and vegetables but also to include whole grains and proteins. Fruits and vegetables are an essential source of natural anti-oxidants that are hard to find elsewhere. And by not including fruits and vegetables to their daily diets, most people miss out on the essential nutrients required for a healthy living. Make sure you have 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

-Consume enough calories: Multiples of researches has shown that the average person should consume an average of 2,000 calories a day. And the more the daily activities you engage yourself depending on your age, height and weight, the more it is expected that your calorie intake should increase.

-Eat junk foods in moderation: Most people eat junk foods because they simply taste good. But they fail to understand the fact that those junk foods can dramatically and drastically alter their physique and body shape, alongside contributing to various health problems.

-Always eat smaller portions: If you eat 2-3 large meals a day, your body’s blood sugar level will increase which may contribute to excess body weight gain. This makes you feel over-bloated. Make sure you have smaller meals throughout the day. If you limit yourself to 5-6 smaller meals a day then your body can metabolize the food faster and healthier. And you will get constant energy and nutrients throughout the day.

-Don’t forget the daily physical exercise: Keeping physically fit goes hand in hand with a better and healthy eating for maintaining the cardiovascular systems. Physical inactivity can allow many unhealthy conditions to develop. From heart diseases to diabetes, many things can be prevented by staying physically active. A vigorous cardio workout 3 or more times per week will also help to keep your body weight and cholesterol levels in check. There are also a good many options when it comes to physical exercising. Try brisk walking for starters if you are new to exercise. Jogging, cycling and aerobics are more active forms of physical exercise. For those that need lower impact workouts, there is yoga, walking and swimming. Any increase in exercise will have a beneficial effect on your overall cardiovascular systems. And your heart will love you for it!

Every aspect of your life is affected directly or indirectly by your health. You will be able to engage in more activities, meet interesting people, and grow in certain professions if you stay healthy. Keep on top of your health and there is no telling what you will achieve in life.