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Healthy eating hurdles assessment

Are you having trouble choosing or sticking with a healthy diet? Take this short assessment to find out what might be holding you back, and get tips for overcoming these barriers.

Note: This assessment is not intended to be a substitute for a visit with your healthcare provider.

Start the assessment

I'm too busy to buy and make healthy foods.

True:

Life can be hectic! One idea for saving time throughout the week is to prep fruits and veggies in advance so they're ready to use when it's time to cook. You can also use canned or frozen produce instead of fresh.

When you do find time to cook, try doubling a healthy recipe and freezing the leftovers to reheat later. False:

Great! It sounds like you have found ways to fit healthy shopping and cooking into your routine.

I can't cook well enough to make nutritious meals.

True:

You don't have to be a gourmet chef to eat healthy. With basic skills and a few ingredients, you can dish up something delicious and nutritious. For example, check out this video for a simple technique to roast vegetables. If you're not up for that, raw or steamed vegetables are easy and great options.

False:

Good for you! Your confidence in your cooking skills doesn't appear to pose a challenge for you.

I don't like the taste of healthy foods, so it's hard for me to enjoy them.

True:

Your tastebuds need time to adjust to new flavors, so make sure to give healthy dishes more than one chance.

You can also prepare your favorite foods in healthier ways. For example, try flavoring dishes with herbs or lemon juice rather than salt. Tweak your usual recipes by using leaner meats or plant-based proteins, adding extra veggies, or using low- or no-fat dairy products.

False:

It sounds like you're eager to explore all sorts of new, good-for-you foods. Bon appétit!

I eat out a lot, and there aren't many healthy options.

True:

Most restaurants (even fast-food places) have at least a few healthy options—though you may have to get creative with the menu. For instance, try a baked potato instead of fries or grilled, skinless poultry breast instead of fried chicken. Also, ask for sauces and dressings on the side so you can control the portions.

False:

Dining out doesn't appear to be an issue for you. That's good, since eating at home makes it easier to control your food choices and portions.

I don't have easy access to a store that sells healthy foods.

True:

Access to healthy food is a real challenge for many people. One option to explore if you're in what's sometimes known as a "food desert" is getting groceries delivered. If that's not an option, try stocking up on nutritious, shelf-stable foods (like canned and frozen produce) when you are able to make it to the store.

False:

That's good news. It appears you don't have trouble accessing a store with fresh and healthy foods.

Healthy food is too expensive for me.

True:

If you're having trouble making your grocery budget work, you aren't alone. But you don't necessarily have to spend more to get healthy food. Checking store ads and planning meals around sale items can help. So can buying seasonal produce and items that tend to be less pricey, like lettuce, peppers and carrots. You may also want to consider using a food pantry.

Check out more tips for healthy shopping on a budget.

False:

That's good. If you are able, consider helping those in need. For instance, you might donate some healthy food items to a local pantry.

Results

The items listed in this assessment are just a few of the potential barriers to healthy eating. If you're having trouble eating well for any reason, talk with your healthcare provider.

Your answers:

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