Let’s face it, making any kind of lifestyle change isn’t easy. It requires determination and intentional actions that will put your closer to the goals you wish to achieve. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, suddenly eliminating something from your life can be a bit traumatic. And I’ve found that this strategy rarely works. It’s too much change too soon. In this article, I’ll share with you some simple paleo substitutes that will help you make better food choices.

Paleo Substitutes: Swap This for That

When people ask me how to make better food choices, I always suggest that they find paleo substitues for the foods they enjoy instead of abruptly eliminating foods from their lives. You are much more likely to fail in your efforts to eat healthier if you don’t replace the foods you remove from your diet with a healthier alternative.

I’m a firm believer in “ditch it but switch it!” Ditch processed foods and beverages that are causing your body harm, but don’t stop there. You must REPLACE them with items that have some resemblance to their unhealthy counterparts so that the change won’t leave you feeling like you just lost your best friend.

Below is paleo substitute infographic that I created to give you an idea of some simple food swaps that will help to fill the voids when you begin eliminating unhealthy foods and beverages from your daily routine. Of course, this list of paleo substitutes isn’t exhaustive, but it includes the top foods and drinks that people tend to miss the most when they are looking to embrace a real food diet.

There is a good chance that you will notice a significant change in your energy levels and overall feeling of well-being if you begin to make healthier food choices. Sugars, processed foods and processed grains tend to leave us feeling sluggish and tired. After a few weeks of making better food choices, don’t be surprised if you wake up one day with more energy!

Paleo Substitutes Infographic