These 4 Simple Swaps Make It That Much Easier to Stick to a Healthy Lifestyle

Hot take: living a healthy lifestyle shouldn't be hard. Struggling day in and day out to stick to a particular diet or workout plan just isn't sustainable.

The key to living a healthy life every single day? Finding healthy habits you actually enjoy. If you hate running, you're not going to feel motivated to wake up an hour earlier to go for a jog — but you might jump out of bed for a fun cardio dance class. In that spirit, take the struggle out of your routine by opting for easier, more seamless ways to be healthy — like these four simple swaps.

Relying on caffeinated energy drinks to put some extra pep in your step isn't a sustainable option. Over time, your body will become used to the extra caffeine, so you'll have to crack one open anytime you need some energy.

From time to time, try subbing in sparkling water. Sure, you might still need the caffeine for especially early mornings or particularly hectic days, but other times, something refreshing and bubbly might just do the trick.

Individually wrapped snack bars might be convenient, but they sometimes may contain lots of sugar or may rely on artificial sweeteners.

For a tasty alternative, try Chobani® with Zero Sugar* which has zero total sugar* and zero artificial ingredients. Each cup comes with 11 grams of protein to keep you going through a busy workday or tough workout. Plus, it comes in eight tasty flavors like strawberry cheesecake and milk and cookies.

*Not a low-calorie food

Diet culture has conditioned so many of us to believe the only way to be healthy is by eliminating all "bad" foods from our diet. The problem? Nothing makes your cravings stronger than telling yourself you can't have it, and if you do eventually give in, you'll wind up feeling defeated.

Contrary to what most diet books will tell you, you can still live a healthy lifestyle while enjoying the foods you really love — including pizza, dessert, and burgers. Just make sure you're eating everything in moderation. If most of your meals consist of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and protein, you can feel good about ordering rigatoni alla vodka or a big stack of pancakes from time to time.

The shaker bottle filled with chalky protein powder is so common, it's become a gym-bag staple. But does the average person just going to the gym to stay in shape really need to refuel with a protein shake?

Though protein powder can be a convenient tool for specific weight-loss or fitness goals, it's not always necessary if you're also getting protein at most of your meals. Meat, fish, and eggs are all great sources of protein, as are plant-based options like chickpeas, lentils, and tofu.

Design: Mia Coleman; Image Source: Shutterstock