Don’t Be A Hater: Eat Smart

Posted by Ecolicious in Articles, Health | 0 comments

I’ve never been much of a dieter. People assume I don’t have a need to diet because I’m “thin”. They automatically assume that being thin comes naturally to me as if by magic, genetics or both.

I’ve tried diets. I have failed miserably at every diet I have ever tried. The only diet I ever stuck to (sort of) was a nightmare. I had gestational diabetes with my second child. Doctor’s orders called for a strict diet…or as I like to think of it…doctor’s cruelty.

Besides the daily finger pricking to check my sugar levels, I was also forbidden many foods, including fruits (because of their high sugar content). I understand some diets are a medical necessity, as in my case, but in other situations I wonder why a person would put herself through such torture no matter how desperate.

I am a woman of rebellious nature. If you tell me I can’t do something I will go out and do it. The same idea holds true with the forbidden nature of diets. If I restrict food from myself the rebellious part of me will want what I can’t have even more and instead of loosing weight I will gain double the weight, plus guilt and triple the b^&chiness!

Luckily, over the years I’ve learned through nutritionists, health magazines, books and self experiments to eat smart. I limit the bad, increase the good and slow down. Step by step: I drink a lot more water before, between and after every meal. I eat breakfast. I eat more fresh foods with fiber. I eat less packaged foods. I eat more vegetables and less carbs.

I also serve myself less food. I eat my food slowly, put my fork down between bites and savor the flavors. In the evening, when I have that sweet (chocolate) or salty (popcorn) snack to curb that late night craving I allow myself to eat until I’m satisfied, not stuffed (unless there are M&M’s and then I just can’t help myself).

[amazon-product align="center"]014311638X[/amazon-product]I exercise too, but not just to burn calories. I also do it to feel good, have more energy and to help clear my mind. If I stray from my healthy eating routine I forgive myself and then I continue on my healthy eating journey.

So, if I’m thin it isn’t magic! It isn’t genetics either, not even close. I’m also in my thirties and I’ve had 3 kids. I can just as easily gain weight as the average Jane. I’ve just set in my mind to eat smart and live a long happy healthy life. Diets are not welcome.

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Image Credit: Good Healthy Food by Ecolicious on Zazzle

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Ecolicious a.k.a Green Yum Yum is a freelance writer from Texas, a mom of 3 and in love with a pilot. She is an advocate for green living, healthy living, and safe driving. She is also madly addicted to chocolate. Locate her on Squidoo to find out a little more: http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/Ecolicious