“You eat to live…not live to eat!” A phrase that I now silently say before many of my meal choices…just to keep me on track. Especially when eating away from home. Or for those moments when I want to grab a quick snack for a road trip. I don’t know about anyone else, but for me, those moments can be frustrating and sometimes overwhelming. There are so many questions and concerns that comes to my mind:
- How many calories?
- I wonder what kind of oil they use?
- Is this gluten free?
- Can I get whole grain?
- Does this place sell seafood?
- Is this stuff overly processed?
Lately, to ease the many questions, I’ve simply opted for water and a salad…hold the cheese and dressing please! Knowing that I’ve struggled with obesity for as long as I can remember, I needed a drastic change if I had any plans on improving my health and my lifestyle. Some of you may be reading this thinking, “You’re over complicating things…” Oh, but I’m not! I’ve tried all of those simple diets. Those making guarantees to lose 21 pounds in 21 days; Lose 10 pounds a week or your money back! I’ve tried it all:
- Apple Cider Diet
- Lemonade Diet
- South Beach Diet
- Cabbage Diet
- And MANY more…
If it was popular, I tried it! If they liked it, I loved it! Don’t ask me who “they” are…LOL I tried pills, potions, lotions, heck, everything; you know, the less complicated way to do things. Or so I thought! Here I am after years of dieting thinking, “Gee…I’ve completely failed at this thing, I’m going to be forever over weight!” Of course that thought was short-lived because here I am again. Now more than ever, I’m educated about the foods to put into my body, supplements to help my body running well and exercise. It all works together well…I’ve also realized the BIG secret that no one ever told me. Or maybe they did but I just didn’t quite get it. “Eat to Live…NOT live to eat!” I had a light bulb moment. It’s a lifestyle and not a simple diet. Which is why those mentioned above never worked for me. Fighting obesity takes extreme measures. It requires time spent on prepping ALL of your meals. I’ll be the first to say, it hasn’t been the easiest transition. I’m no expert; yet! Hell, I’m still trying to figure this thing out. One thing that I do know though, I’m looking forward to when all of this doesn’t seem so extreme.
Jai's 'Devine' Journey 