Conquering the Dreaded Diet
We eat 3 meals every day and often snack in between. It’s a habit we developed originally as toddlers. The problem for me, and maybe you, is that I LOVE food! I have my favorite go-to’s. Why is that a problem? Because my go-to’s aren’t necessarily healthy dietary choices.
Our bodies are like cars – they need fuel to keep running. However, just as you can’t expect a car to run well on diesel fuel if it’s designed for unleaded fuel, you can’t expect your body to run well on processed foods when it’s designed for lean protein, fruits, and vegetables.
When we attempt to make changes in our diet, we feel deprived if we can’t have our old favorites. I often have to remind myself, out loud sometimes, “I eat for fuel, not for fun.” I learned from a friend to also say, “I want to be thin, more than I want this … whatever.”
The key to sticking with any change is strong goals, a plan for dealing with obstacles/temptations, and awareness. Once you’ve committed to change, it requires constant awareness of your thoughts and actions for at least 3 weeks. There’s only one thing I can promise you – it won’t be easy! But, studies have shown you can develop a new habit in 21 days and then you won’t feel deprived as often. Your healthy dietary choices will become your new normal, your new go-to’s.
But what about those 3 weeks? How do you survive them? Prepare a plan for those moments when you feel tempted and pray. A LOT!!!
Here are a few suggestions for great lean protein, fruits, and vegetables.
Vegetables – remember fresh or grilled veggies are the healthiest, but a sauce is fine occasionally.
Fruits – again, fresh is best, but fruit used in dishes, juices, or smoothies work for a change of pace
Need help implementing these self-care strategies in your own life? Check out my Joy Journal. It’s a combination planner/journal to help support attempts to manage your emotions and make positive habit changes.
Need inspiration and encouragement? Join me on Facebook on the Sadness to Joy page. That’s where you’ll find the daily encouragement and accountability you need to help bring your plan into existence.
What healthy dietary changes do you need to make? How will you do it?
