Happy AND Healthy
Have you ever tried to change your diet and realized that you need to stop eating some of your favorite foods?
Did it stop you from pursuing your health goal?
Have you felt like a child having a meltdown saying, “But that’s not fair! I can’t live without my favorite foods?”
Guess what? You can turn it around the other way and start to think about the great foods that you can start eating, and how they will make you feel better than ever!
I know what it’s like. When I make meals, I know that there are some foods that are off the menu. This is what we work with when we make meals: Type 2 diabetes, diverticulitis, a picky eater, and a postmenopausal momma. There are some days that are really hard. But just like anything else, attitude is everything. That’s what makes all the difference. Think about it this way, if you don’t have your health your choices are limited.
Here are a few ideas to help you feel better about taking care of your body and your health.
First, instead of complaining about all the foods you “can’t” eat, start looking for great meals that include the foods that will take you to the next level of health. Focus on the good stuff when you make your grocery list, plan your meals, or eat out.
Start following social media pages or sign up for newsletters that offer great recipes. When you collect lots of great recipes, you will realize that you have more options than you thought.
As a postmenopausal woman, I am eating more protein and veggies. Those are the two food groups that I have increased in order to feel better, and to support my strength training efforts. It’s not that hard to do. I just make a concerted effort to do it.
Second, I believe in “planned indulgences.” One of the best things you can do to improve your eating habits is to allow yourself to have a small indulgence so you will not feel restricted. And if you want to cut out something like sugar, choose a healthy treat.
Begin your day with an indulgence. That way, you can start your day with a smile. Another option is to give yourself a little treat with every meal. Then you will spread out the happiness. It can be difficult to get back on track if you have a big meal or you lessen your restrictions during a weekend or a vacation.
If you know that you will be traveling, do some work ahead of time. If you really want to control what you eat, bring your favorite foods with you. If you know that you overeat when you are tired or if you start to get “hangry” from eating too late, plan ahead and schedule your meals.
Third, Look at the long-term benefits. When you think about why you are doing this, it will be very clear to you that your choices can have long-term consequences. Do you want to run around the yard with your grandchildren or your dog? Do you want to be able to bend down to pick flowers or collect veggies from your garden? Do you want to clear brain fog or sleep better? These are the goal posts you use to guide your decisions. You can ask yourself, “Is this good for my body?”
Which is more important to you - being able to eat comfort food or feeling great, confident, and consciously choosing healthy power foods instead?
Start to envision yourself doing more, feeling better, and knowing that you are fueling your body with Premium fuel. It is so empowering to know that you can control what you eat and then enjoy the benefits as a result.
Are you ready to improve your health? How would you like to reduce stress, learn what self-care really is, and sleep better?
I am hosting a masterclass “Some of My Favorite Health Hacks.” You are invited to attend. Click here to learn more and register to attend. Registration is required. It will be held on Zoom. We will email the link 24 hours before the masterclass.
