With the new year quickly approaching, there is no better gift one can give themselves than the gift of better health. If you’ve fallen short in that area in the past, you’re not alone. Many people have good intentions about getting into shape and adopting a healthier lifestyle come the new year.
Why is this such a critical question? Because you can’t have what you want if
you don’t know what you want.
Most people don’t have a clue. The best they can do is say what they don’t want… what they’re “sick and tired” of… but not what they crave. Kids can tell you all day long. Just ask…or don’t ask… they’ll tell you anyway. 😉
But adults, that’s a whole other story. Tragic really. It’s like a line of starving people at an “all you can eat” buffet. Anything and everything you could ever want is available to you in unlimited, inexhaustible supply yet most people live like there’s never enough of anything.
So how about you? What do you want… REALLY want? Do you know?
The Christmas Season is especially difficult for those trying to diet—lose weight or even just maintain their weight. I used to start a diet thinking I had to deprive myself of good things…and to feel hungry all the time!!
Those kinds of diets usually fail. While you might lose a few pounds, you will tend to gain 
them back. No one can live in a constant state of hunger!! If you tell yourself you cannot have a certain food (like chocolate), guess what you will crave!! I have actually had chocolate call my name!!
I learned years ago that dieting is never a good idea. What you should do is make lifestyle changes. Modify your eating in ways you can continue. Don’t deprive yourself for 2 weeks and then go crazy eating after that!
Tips for eating and enjoying it—but not gaining weight.
I have learned some tips that have helped me through the years. I have been a long time Weight Watcher member and have tried to find ways to eat in whatever situation I am in…and make it work. I don’t beat myself up if I am not perfect. I just get up and start over the next day.
Growing up, my mom was a great cook. Bacon (and the grease) was used in almost every vegetable for seasoning. Sure it is great—but not healthy or low calorie. Instead of using bacon or lots of butter when cooking my veggies, I have learned to use chicken broth—or even just bouillon cubes. My green beans cooked this way are great. I use one bouillon cube per pound of fresh green beans. Try sautéing a chopped onion in just a dab of olive oil first and that will also add extra flavor.