Six Simple Strategies for Improving Your Diet

If you want to improve your diet but don't have time for complex food plans, you just may find these six simple strategies a tasty way to meet your goals:

1. Eat more vegetables and fruits.

Vegetables are high in antioxidants and provide vitamins and minerals that our bodies need, according to Dr. Michael J Hall, MD, who is an international expert on anti-aging and longevity medicine. He also recommends fruits for their richness in antioxidants.

2. Don't be afraid to go nuts (eating them, that is!).

Dr. Hall also says that nuts can be beneficial for your body, as they are high in monounsaturated fats. Used directly by the brain, nuts "are great immune boosters," adds Dr. Hall.

3. Don't give up if you want to lose weight.

Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to losing weight. Dr. Hall recommends weighing yourself daily, so that you can track your progress. "Boxers weigh themselves to know how competitive they will be; think like a boxer and stay in fighting form," the doctor advises.

4. Make exercise part of your diet program.

Dr. Hall suggests aiming for 20 to 30 minutes a day of physical activity, from swimming to walking to biking.

5. Avoid white foods.

White rice, white bread, white sugar -- put those types of foods on your "toss it" list! Dr. Hall also recommends avoiding cola and fried food.

6. Try a mini-meals plan of five meals a day.

Dr. Hall suggests learning to graze by dividing your food into five small meals. Go for healthy items for both snacks and meals. "Try not to do a coffee break with a pastry," says the physician. Instead, enjoy juice and nuts or a piece of fruit.