Fit Momma

August 30, 2008

I have always tried to stay in shape. I am not a huge exercise junkie, but I make sure I get enough exercise so I can remain healthy. For me, this means going to the gym or running outside at least 3-4 times per week and on my “off” days, I walk about 1-2 miles. I also do strength training at the gym or pilates at home. This is a big deal to me, so I find it very easy to exercise. I am also constantly reading about how to make good food choices. This is harder for me. I eat pretty healthy, but I do have a bit of a sweet tooth. For this reason, I am always looking for ways to resist the sugar craving. Don’t get me wrong, I think everyone should allow themselves some sweets in moderation. But, sometimes, moderation doesn’t work for me. I love desserts! Anyway, to my point. Tonight, I was reading a list of ways to control what I eat, and there were some new suggestions on this list I am going to try. I thought I would share.

1. Keep a journal - I have kept a food diary before, which really works well for me. I would much rather write down that I ate 5 strawberries than 3 cookies. But, this list suggested also writing down what you are craving and how it makes you feel when you indulge yourself. What it tastes like, what you like about it, etc. Apparently, that helps tame the craving. I am going to give this a shot.

2. Drink more water - This list suggests that sometimes, initial hunger pains are your body screaming for water and you are actually thirsty. You should drink a glass of water and wait a few minutes to see if you are still hungry. If you are, then go ahead and have a small snack.

And, here are a few things off of the list that I already do to stay fit and find really helpful.

1. As I mentioned above, I exercise regularly. Jeremiah and I both exercise, which keeps us both motivated. We go on walks together, to the gym together, go on family bike rides and jog.

2. I have kept a food diary. This was great, but I get lazy and forget to do it. I should start up again.

3. I obey the rule, a calorie is a calorie is a calorie. I think my least favorite diet fad is the Adkins diet. I have met hundreds of people (okay, maybe 50 or so) on this diet who are shocked that I eat bread with my pasta! Then, I will see them eat a pound of meat with veggies soaked in butter and cheese. Amazing. I am madly in love with carbs and will never let them go. But, everything in moderation. A calorie is a calorie, no matter its form. If you are going to do a “diet” plan, Weight Watchers is the way to go. It promotes overall healthy eating.

4. I fill my fridge with fruit. This helps a lot with the whole sugar craving I was talking about. It is just really expensive to do. Bananas, apples, and grapes are usually pretty affordable though.

And, a few things I do to my nutritional detriment.

1. I drink Diet Coke. Usually 1-2 per day. It is no good, but I find it very difficult to stop!

2. I am a baker. When trying to resist sugar, it isn’t always the best idea to be working on a sugar filled cake for 6 straight hours. I am bound to sneak a spoonful or ten of icing. And, I swear, brownies will be the death of me. Oh, brownies, how I hate to love you!

3. Evening snack. I almost always have an evening snack. I am not necessarily hungry, but feel I need a snack while watching Psych. I need to stop doing that.

4. Brownies! Oh, did I mention those already. Yum.

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