Since I have embraced a fitness lifestyle over the last 18 months, lots of people have asked me what it is exactly that I do. The big secret is: THERE IS NO SECRET!
About a year ago, I was introduced the 6 Components of a Healthy Lifestyle. Depending on where you’re at in your journey, these 6 components may feel overwhelming or uplifting. When I first heard them, I was overwhelmed. I had 2-1/2 of the 6 going for me, and I felt like I would never be able to accomplish all 6 at the same point in time, but I did. It took discipline, dedication, sacrifice and hard work, but I emerged on the other side a happier, healthier me. You can, too! Today I will focus on the first component…
EATING
This can be a tough one for some people, and I admit it does require the most discipline from me.
A balanced meal has really changed in definition over the last several years, but now the general theme is that your meals should consist of a lean protein, whole grain, a variety of vegetables and some healthy fat. I’m a visual learner, so here you go.
I realized quickly that my portions were too large and that I was eating too much fruit and protein and not enough vegetables. I try to follow this plate diagram for my lunches and dinners. Breakfast is either a banana and whole wheat toast with almond butter or Kashi GoLEAN Cereal. Do I cheat sometimes and go out for dinner? Sure, but only about once per month, and I order something healthy like grilled fish and vegetables with no oil. The toughest part about eating healthy is the planning that is involved. Some people make a 4 week menu that they rotate, but I’m a fan of the weekly menu. I plan a week’s meals, make a list and shop. Done diddly done.
What I do:
~ Participate in a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program for organic vegetables. Visit
Local Harvest to find one in your area.
~ Purchase what’s in season at the store to save money and/or visit farmer’s markets during the growing season.
~ Utilize sites like
allrecipes.com and
Eating Well to complete weekly menus and stick to them. Don’t be afraid to modify a recipe to enhance the healthy quality of it!
~ Have healthy options in the house and limit temptations.
~ Buy organic, free-range eggs from my neighbor.
~ Pick my own fruit at local farms during the growing season.
~ Avoid dairy (it just doesn’t work for me). Instead I enjoy almond milk, coconut milk, and soy milk.
~ Enjoy some wine or beer in moderation (with a possible binge drinking indiscretion here and there. Look, I’m being honest.)
~ Use healthy oils for cooking instead of butter (olive oil, sunflower oil).
~ Drink water as my main liquid. I also will drink naturally-flavored seltzer.
What I’d like to do:
~ Grow a garden (HELP!!) so that we become more self reliant as our own food source.
What I Don’t Do:
~ Count calories or fat or points. I stick to the plate guidelines above, since it’s foolproof and simple. I don’t have time to weigh food and I certainly don’t keep a calculator in the kitchen!
Healthy, responsible eating has benefited me immensely. The great part is that like all the other components, it is a CHOICE. It’s a choice that you make, commit to and embrace.
What is the biggest challenge you have with healthy eating?
What tips do you have for others on the journey to feel better and eat healthier?
What are some of your favorite go-to healthy choices?
Will you be my gardener?
Please join me at Run for the Hills to learn about the other Components of a Healthy Lifestyle, appearing in upcoming posts. Thanks for reading!
Jill
