The New Year is almost here, and with it comes a chance to makes some positive changes in your lifestyle.

One of the best things you can do to give yourself more energy, better health and improved vitality, is to improve your diet.

So, here are 10 simple steps to help improve your diet and health in 2011: 

1) Add more variety

Your body requires over 40 nutrients for optimum health. Incorporating a wide range of colorful fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, whole grains, and low fat dairy products will help ensure that you get the vitamins and minerals you need. 

2) Reduce your portion sizes

Keeping your portion sizes reasonable is an effective way to reduce your caloric intake, and helps you lose weight, or maintain a healthy weight. What I love most about this, is that you can still have a little of your favorite foods, just in a smaller amount, so you don't feel deprived.

3) Eat meals at regular times

Eating several small meals per day helps keep the unhealthy binge eating cycle at bay, and helps you maintain a more stable blood sugar level, which is very important to help you avoid low energy.

4) Add more whole grain foods

Whole grains satisfy your body's need for carbohydrates, while keeping your blood sugar swings to a minimum. This is important for satiety, and in keeping overeating to a minimum.

5) Drink 8 glasses of water per day

Our bodies need water to function optimally in every process. In addition, although water has no calories, it can help you to feel full, so drinking water before meals can also prevent overeating.  

6) Don't skip breakfast

Eating a hearty breakfast gives you energy and nutrients which you need to get through the day. Studies show that people who skip breakfast are more likely to overeat later in the day. The best breakfast is one that combines lean protein, with a little whole grain carbs, and some fruit and/or vegetables. For example, an omelette filled with two types of vegetables, and one slice of wholegrain toast. Or, a small bowl of oatmeal, topped with berries, natural yogurt, and crushed nuts.

7) Choose broiled or grilled food rather than fried foods

Broiling or grilling your food gives a very similar taste to fried foods, but it significantly reduces the fat content of your meal. 

8) Be disciplined at the grocery store

It's much easier to stick to a healthy diet if you buy only (or mostly) healthy foods when you purchase your groceries. It's very difficult to avoid the temptation of cookies or chips when they are sitting in your pantry at home. If you don't buy them in the first place, you won't be tempted to stray from your diet. Simple as that!

9) Reduce your salt intake 

Eating foods that are high in sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, as well as water retention, and the resulting weight gain. Choose low sodium versions of your favourite foods if possible, and don't add salt to your food if you can help it. Try herbs, spices and citrus fruits as flavoring instead.