It's been a while since the last post because this blog isn't about being a guru or an expert; it's about a journey. Just now a journey that isn't going too well. Ever since we fell off the wagon when we had house-guests (and no, I am very much not blaming them) we've had trouble sticking to our diet. I don't think we've gained weight back but we're sure not losing any and I liked losing weight.
Eating real, natural and seasonal foods can be expensive and lately we've been having trouble making ends meet. Some times this has meant eating what we could afford rather than what we should but the real problem is simpler- we 'fell off the wagon' with sugar and as any alcoholic will tell you it's hard to catch up with that wagon and climb back on. We're working on it but it's tough when you are stressed out over money and the sugar jones hits. But we have a plan...
It starts with fruit. It's high summer and it's prime-time for all sorts of fruits. We're going to stock up and when we start jones-ing we'll try to satisfy the craving by eating fruit instead.
There's also honey. Yes, it's high in carbs and very much of it isn't going to help us lose weight but it's better than processed sugar and a hell of a lot better than high-fructose corn syrup. It can be used to sweeten fruit or iced tea... or just take a teaspoon in your mouth and savor it. On the scale of dietary sins it ranks way lower than the alternatives. Sorghum or molasses can stand in for honey too.
Dark Chocolate is helpful too, the more cocoa the better, The interesting thing that we have found about really dark chocolate (86% cocoa or more) is that if savored a very little goes a long way. One square tends to be as satisfying as a whole bar of normal milk chocolate with a lot less calories. Again, on the scale of 'sins' it's pretty far down the list from a Milky Way or Three Musketeers bar.
Work on reducing stress. A bit of meditation and activities that are highly engaging and require concentration. Cravings for forbidden foods tend to pop up when we are stressed, bored or idle.
Last but not least... Stuff ourselves with good food. Green vegetables. Turnips and parsnips. Leafy greens and rich, well prepared meats. The occasional Yam.
One last thing... don't give up. Catch up with that wagon and climb back on and don't let an occasional slip be the excuse to give up.
Other suggestions are of course welcome. We'll keep you posted.
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