Why does getting and staying healthy seem like an impossible dream for some of us? Why do we associate the term “healthy” with a size 6, organic loving, gym fanatic? In case you’re wondering….that’s not me! lol!
I’m just a woman, who could lose a few pounds, with a desire to just feel good. I want to play with my grandson and not get out of breath! I want to eat a meal and not be tortured with heart burn or acid reflux. Most of all, I want to look in the mirror while trying on clothes and smile at who I see. Anybody else?
I decided last summer that I would be that girl! I joined Weight Watchers and lost 20 pounds. It took me about 4 months and let me tell you…it was worth it! I’ll be honest, I didn’t want to spend the money but I’m glad that I did. I’m worth the investment. The program taught me how to make better choices and to watch my portion sizes. It works! I feel great!
Now… for the next phase of my journey. Even though I had lost weight and no longer had to crawl to get out of the floor, I still suffered with some digestive issues. I was eating foods that were on plan but still suffered from heart burn, acid reflux or just basic stomach pains. What to do? I took a good look at WHAT I was choosing to eat. Did you know that just because is says “low fat” or “fat free”, doesn’t mean it’s the best choice? It can still contain processed sugar or high sodium. I was faced with making some choices….healthier choices.
I started reading… labels, articles, books and I did my own research. I have drastically reduced the processed foods in my life. Does anyone have an air fryer? yes… no? Well, I bought an air fryer and have given the fried foods in my life a new look. I try to stay away from white flour and other “whites”. Don’t misunderstand, I’m not gluten free…just keeping an eye on the intake. I do a lot more cooking at home rather than visiting restaurants. I know for some that may be easier said than done, but stay with me on this…you’ll feel better and save money in the process. It’s a lot healthier to bake a chicken breast and pair it with a baked sweet potato and green beans than to run through the drive thru at Zaxby’s! And….if you plan just right, the left overs can be eaten the next day for lunch or supper! Two meals at one time! Bam!
I say all of this to say this…we’re worth the effort to feel good…to feel pretty. God sees us as worthy and it’s time we see ourselves the way He does.
The first tip I want to share is my substitute for white flour. It’s a blend of gluten free nut flours that is super healthy and great tasting. I use it for pancakes, waffles, homemade muffins and so much more. Check out the link below.
I’ll be posting from time to time different recipes, ideas and encouraging words to keep us on our “healthy” journey. Keep checking back!
Baking Blend