Healthy Habits

I've talked about my fitness plan. Now, it's time to talk about food. This is something I REALLY struggle with. I love my food...a little too much! I am not interested in the fad diets or natural supplements that are so common these days - I just want to eat a healthy, balanced diet. The idea is that this will help me not only with my weight, but also with my energy and just generally feeling healthier. It will also help to set a good example for my boys as they grow up.

The question is - how do I go about changing my habits?

I'm not a big fruit eater - that is, I love eating fruit but it always seems easier to grab something from a packet. I also find that I can only buy a little at a time (and therefore, need to shop more often) as Mr Magoo doesn't eat fruit (except the occasional banana) and Cheeky Bear wants whatever Mr Magoo has. My last reason (and yes, I do realise these are just excuses - although not very good ones) is that I actually forget that I've bought it until it's too late.

I am a sugar addict. I admit it. I often buy a little snack with the groceries and eat it before I get home - just because I feel like something sweet. It is usually a chocolate, or an individual serving of cheesecake, custard or something similar. I have also been known to eat sugar by the spoonful - and no, I am not proud of this and I know it is not good for me (especially my teeth).

My other problem is portion size. I know I eat big meals - I always have. And I eat quickly. I grew up with two older brothers and a Dad who would often eye off my food once they had finished theirs, hoping I wouldn't be able to eat it all. If there was a chance for seconds, you had to be quick - otherwise you would miss out.

I think if I can change these habits, then I will have nothing to worry about. I have spent the last 6 months or so trying really hard to break these bad habits, but I have always fallen back on the old path so to speak. I am going to make myself accountable. Right now. I am going to change these habits. Starting from now, I am going to do the following to break my bad habits and create good ones:

• I will eat two serves of fruit every day (and five serves of vegetables);
• I will stop buying sweet treats, and cut back on my sugar intake A LOT;
• I will be strict with my portion sizes; and
• I will slow down my eating.

I will struggle. It will be hard. But it will be worth it. I will keep you updated over time...

Take care,

Kelly xxx