Have you slipped into sloppy, not-so-healthy eating habits? No matter why this has happened or for how long it has been going on, it is never too late to alter your habits to reflect a healthier way of living. In so doing you will allow yourself to look better, feel better and have more energy to do the things you need (and want) to do. Read on …

Start your day with a healthy breakfast.

Studies have proven that people who eat breakfast are less likely to overeat later in the day and are less inclined to pack on the pounds. Children who eat breakfast have the tendency to perform better in school, and adults, better at work.

Hydrate your body.

Drink lots of water throughout the day, the more the better. A good amount to aim for is at least four to six 8-ounce glasses per day. In fact drinking a glass of water when you first get out of bed in the morning is an excellent way to get a jumpstart on your day.

Variety is the spice of life.

Get into a habit of eating a variety of different foods with your meals, just make sure that at least five servings are fruits and vegetables. This is not always easy to do but it is possible. And remember, your body is not picky about the kinds of fruits and veggies you eat -- it will gladly accept the nutrients and vitamins from whichever ones you choose to feed it!

Keep active.

Incorporate exercise into your daily routine. What kind you do is not important, just get moving! Walk, swim, bike, play a sport, take an aerobics class, whatever it is that suits you, do it and find enjoyment in getting, and staying, fit. Your body will thank you for it.

Think lean meats and grains.

Eat plenty of lean, high protein foods in your daily diet such as lean meat, fish, chicken and beans. Stay away from salted and processed meats. Also eat grains, whether they be in the form of wholegrain cereal, breads etc. Grains provide the body with fiber, iron and B vitamins and are therefore a necessity.

Mmm mmm milk.

Milk is more than just delicious, it is very good for you. Just remember to choose low fat (one percent) or fat free (skim) milk. A cup of skim milk contains only eighty calories but also contains a good dosage of protein and calcium.