The difference between eating healthy and dieting can be shown in numerous examples. I’ve lived the difference myself. I used to eat however I wanted. When I got a little heavier than I liked, I’d cut out all carbs, stock up on protein, and lose the weight. Then I’d eat how I wanted again. This was not a good plan of course . . but I did get to eat more french fries that way.
After hurting my body with years of not enough rest, not enough sleep, improper nutrients, etc; even my old go-to of cutting out carbs and stocking up on protein wasn’t working. About a year of this slow revelation was finally sinking in when I tore my PCL and found myself resting for months with my leg in a brace. I consoled myself with Doritos and Oreos . . not great decisions.
Several months ago I started making better decisions. I’ve been sleeping acceptable hours at night. I’ve been eating healthier, including low-carb choices that are actually sustainable long-term; not just for a month while I drop 20 pounds. I’ve been exercising again, at a sustainable pace; not just hard-core for a month while I drop 20 pounds. And, I’ve been paying attention to when I actually eat; intermittent fasting seems to fit very well with how my body wants to run.
Lately the scale hasn’t moved much. I have had several little pep talks with myself. I’m not changing. These choices weren’t made just to make the scale move. These choices were made to have a healthier life!
Last summer, I wore a size 14 pants. Ok, honestly I probably should have been wearing a 16 pants. I refused to buy a bigger size. I stuffed myself in to the 14’s (“stuffed” is not an exaggeration). After awhile, I felt the size 14’s become more comfortable. Then the 14’s became too big. The size 12’s came back from their exile at my top shelf. I know a healthy body size varies by person. I was a size 8 in high school with minimal body fat. I’m shooting for a 10 now . . . maybe an 8 . . we’ll see . . .
Tonight I am thankful that choices made for a better, healthier life are here to stay. I am thankful that my low blood sugar episodes have almost completely went away. I am thankful that my thyroid is running a bit better. And, I am thankful that these choices have opened up a dusty part of my wardrobe that was set aside for when I got my act together again!
P.S. You can’t taste a difference in a low-carb tortilla when making a breakfast burrito!
Bug's Bright Side 