New Year’s Resolutions seems to be something that gets set on January 1st and forgotten about on January 10th. Some resolutions include quitting smoking, exercising more, or reuniting with loved ones. A study recently done on people who set New Year's resolutions in 2021 was diet and losing weight. There are many ways to make food-related goals attainable in 2022. Adam Schafer, a clinical dietitian with OSF Healthcare says that people should make their goals realistic.

Schafer says to set specific goals to measure those goals, and have a plan to meet those goals. One way to do that is through what he calls SMART goals. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-Bound). Focusing on small, achievable habits and activities can improve your health over time. 

If one of your resolutions is to lose weight, Schafer says you should think about what you have done or not done in the past to set your future weight loss goals. People should avoid setting an actual number but focus more on things like having your clothes fit better and do certain activities easier.  Schafer says these milestones will keep you motivated.

Other tips include filling up on fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, watching your sodium intake, planning your meals, and keeping a food log to monitor what you eat.  Schafer says proper nutrition isn’t a quick fix but it can set up greater habits in the future.

For more information on nutrition facts, contact your local healthcare physician.