The beginning of a new year has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. It's a time to reflect on the changes we want (or need) to make and resolve to follow through on those changes. Resolving to eat healthier is one of the most popular resolutions year after year. If you were one of the many people who wanted to change your eating habits, here are five reasons to eat better this year.

1. You will have more energy

Sugar will only give you short-term energy boosts that leave you feeling tired and less energetic afterward, but eating the right foods will give you more energy throughout the day. Low-glycemic foods that are high in complex carbohydrates and low in excess fats are the best choices because they release energy slowly, keeping your energy levels high.

Related

What the diet industry doesn't want you to know

Tres Prier Hatch, author of "Miracle Pill, 10 Truths to Healthy, Thin and Sexy" tells how she lost 110 pounds and discovered principles that have nothing to do with weight loss as perpetuated by the diet industry.

Iron is also very important because it produces red blood cells that carry blood to exercising muscles. Eliminate foods like candy bars and soda, which essentially do the exact opposite — only give you energy for a short time. Instead, try snacks like bananas, dried fruit and almonds to increase your energy levels, suggests Nathan Schiller at qualityhealth.com.

2. You will look better by having less body fat and more muscle

To build muscle and lose fat, you need a variety of proteins, veggies, fruits, carbs and healthy fats. Eating lean protein helps build and maintain muscle as well as burn fat. You may be surprised to learn that eating fats also helps you lose fat. This is because your body will store fats if you are not eating any. According to stronglifts.com, "super foods" such as eggs, nuts, spinach, carrots and yogurt will help build muscle and lose fat.

3. You will live longer and avoid cardiovascular diseases

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death in American adults. Limiting how much saturated and trans fats you eat is the most important step you can take to reduce your blood cholesterol and lower your risk of coronary artery disease. The Mayo Clinic offers 8 steps to preventing heart disease, including reducing sodium, increasing fruit and vegetable intake, and controlling portion sizes.

4. You will feel better with no afternoon slumps

The same foods that will increase your energy will also help you feel better. Caffeine is a stimulant that lacks nutritional benefits. Avoiding caffeine will reduce headaches, stress and blood sugar levels. In additon, drinking too much caffeine can cause dehyrdation, which will increase headaches and slumps in energy throughout your day.

5. You will learn to cook delicious healthy meals

Eating healthy doesn't mean eating flavorless. When you start eating healthy it might not seem as fun and flavorful as eating out, but learning to cook meals that are delicious and nutritious will change your life. The Food Network offers great ideas for 'Hearty, Healthy Sides' like sweet potatoes, green beans and salads. Learning to make delicious sides will help you to feel satisfied with your meal while at the same time saving money and unnecessary calories.

Related topics