Weight Loss Tips: Eating to Live

Weight Loss Tips

Weight Loss Tips

Eating to Live: Being Prepared, Staying Focused and Following Through on A Workout Routine

This week’s workouts were all about focusing on my core. When I got to the gym on Monday time was limited so I suggested we wait and train another day. My trainer, Alfred insisted that 15 minutes would be sufficient. To be honest I couldn’t imagine that just 15 minutes would make a difference; I was wrong. Due to scheduling commitments my workouts with Alfred were back to back this week. Each session left me realizing that a good workout doesn’t have to be lengthy. Focusing on one specific area for a shorter amount of time can be as effective as working on the whole body for a long time. One of the benefits of working with a trainer is that I can ask questions like “what will this exercise do for me?” or “why do we do 12 reps of this exercise?” Having someone knowledgeable to not only answer my questions but instruct me on the correct way to workout has become a key component of my weight loss and fitness success. As of today, I am down 63 pounds; three clothes sizes and even my shoes are too big.

Being a food addict, one of the biggest struggles I have had is trying to conquer the addiction while still having to eat. I am always on the lookout for new recipes that incorporate great flavor as well as fuel for my body. The concept of “eating to live” instead of “living to eat” has become my new motto. This like any major lifestyle change is something I must continue to work on. This week I want to share a few tips on how I have been able to change my eating habits so that not only am I fueling my body healthily but I am not feeling deprived or like I am missing out on special treats.

  • I love pasta and have found that whole grain pasta is a great substitute when making my favorite pasta dishes. What’s even more helpful is the discovery of spaghetti squash. I had to ask my friend Amee (Madame Deals) how to cook a spaghetti squash because I had never eaten one before. The flesh of the squash when cooked takes on spaghetti like characteristics and is a healthy substitute for pasta.
  • Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Mini turkey burger sliders with fresh steamed vegetables sprinkled with fresh garlic and a touch of sea salt makes a great healthy meal. I really don’t miss the greasy fries and bigger burgers.
  • Substitute brown rice for white rice. For added texture and flavor I mix brown rice with wild rice and toss in nuts and/or dried cranberries.
  • Don’t buy the junk. The snack shelf in my pantry is pretty empty. Protein bars, baked chips, air popped popcorn (made at home), whole grain/wheat crackers along with fresh hummus, peanut butter and almonds have taken up residence in my pantry. Always make sure to stick to the suggested serving size (or less) to keep your calorie count in check.
  • Use one slice of bread for a sandwich. One suggested serving of sliced lean meat, low fat cheese, lettuce or other vegetables in a half sandwich is more than enough; you won’t even miss the second slice of bread.
  • Use sodium free, reduced fat chicken broth in mashed potatoes instead of milk or cream. You can still have the potatoes, just remember portion size.
  • Eating several smaller meals each day instead of three larger meals will not only keep your body fueled but will keep your digestive system functioning efficiently.
  • Drinking a glass of water before you eat will help you feel full quicker.

Sticking to a healthy eating plan until it becomes second nature can be difficult. For me I chose to eliminate all of the bad stuff at one time. Others may need to eliminate a little at a time. Whatever path you choose in regard to your health, being prepared, staying focused and following through with a workout plan that is designed to your specific needs is key to a life of health and wellness.

Peace,
K2

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