Things I've learned

I have learned ...

That "starting" is the hardest part. Actually making the choice to have a healthier lifestyle and then doing it.

That I can eat all the vegetables I want, and that I actually like to eat more vegetables than I thought I did before.

Once your body gets used to eating vegetables and fruits regularly, you actually start to crave them. I know! Crazy, right? I never thought it was possible, but it really is!

Weight loss isn't the main goal. The main goal is how I feel about myself. I don't think I've lost much weight, but since I've been working out daily and eating healthier for a solid month now, I feel better about myself. My clothes aren't fitting too much differently ... maybe a little, but not a whole lot yet. But I still feel happier knowing that I'm making a difference in my overall health.

I have to make the choice every single day - every single meal - to eat healthy and not give in to the junk food. Since I have a family that includes a husband and children, I have to have some chips and cookies in the house - or there would be a large revolt. So, I tell myself that if I'm still hungry after eating my healthy meal, I can have the junk. The thing is, I am NEVER hungry after eating a full serving of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Not once!

I have less stomach troubles than I did before. I used to feel sick at night and not sleep well. Lately, my stomach hurts a lot less and I sleep a lot better.

I don't weigh myself anymore. I used to weigh myself daily, get discouraged, and give up. Then, I'd say to myself, "I'll weigh only once a week." With the scale right there, I was always tempted. A month ago, I had my children hide the scale. I told them I don't want to see it again, but I wasn't ready to just get rid of it altogether. Now, I am only weighed at the doctor's office when I go once a month. I am no longer discouraged about my progress, because knowing that I'm making the right choices each and every day is all I need to do to stay motivated.

Having the support of my physician is crucial for my success. She helps me understand the choices that I've made and why they work or not. She keeps things in perspective. Helps me see the "bigger picture". Gives me goals to work toward.

So .... if you are on this journey with me, consider the things I've learned. It might help to know that there are many others out there who are in our situation. The important thing to remember is that if you're dedicated, you too can lose weight with little cost.

Oh, and that reminds me .... I can't tell you how often I've heard, "eating healthier is more expensive than eating junk food." Okay, I go to the grocery store every week. Before I started this lifestyle change, I spent $180-$200 per week on groceries. Now, I might spend $80 on food each week. Buying fruit and vegetables mostly, and cutting back on chips, cookies, soda, and junk has saved us money ... so that's just not true.