How to start eating healthier

DALLAS, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- It is much easier to follow through on the New Year's resolution to eat healthier if you create the right environment, U.S. dietitians say.

Lona Sandon, a registered dietitian at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, says the best way to kick off a better post-holiday diet is by clearing the kitchen of all fattening or unhealthy foods.

"That includes leftover holiday cookies or candy, party food and other tempting treats," Sandon says in a statement. "Fill your kitchen with fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and nuts, and you'll be far more likely to eat healthier snacks and meals."

The cost and availability of fresh produce in the winter can be an easy excuse for coming up short, Dr. Jo Ann Carson, also a nutrition expert at the Southwestern Medical Center, says.

"In the winter you can augment the fresh produce you find in season with canned or frozen fruits and vegetables," she says.

"Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at the height of freshness, and are therefore generally almost as nutritious as fresh produce. Some canned fruits and vegetables are even more nutritious than fresh. Just be sure to scan the ingredient label to be certain you're not getting any added sugar, salt or fat."