Dethroned

What importance does food play in your daily routine? How much attention do you give to what you're going to eat? Most people will answer quite a bit. Depending on your diet, this could easily take up to about 60% of your planning throughout your day, especially for those who eat 6 small meals a day. Usually, not an hour goes by without our mind wandering to food, whether it be a snack or a meal. For some, it may become an obsession. It becomes the high point of our day, what we look forward to the most. Sometimes, we may not even be aware of how much importance we have given food. Unintentionally, we may have put food up on a pedestal. It has power over us.

My belief is that this is what leads to obesity. We chase the feeling of satisfaction that we get from food, often to the point of feeling stuffed. Until we feel that "full" feeling, we won't stop. This is especially true if we have a craving. We won't truly be satisfied unless we get that specific taste we are looking for. 

It's time to kick food off the pedestal on which we have placed it. That doesn't mean that you don't look forward to a tasty meal, or enjoy good food. We were given these tastebuds for a reason! Here are some tips to help you dethrone food.

1. Train Your Mind

When you catch yourself daydreaming about your next meal, shift your attention to something more beneficial.  In these moments, I stop myself from focusing on how good it will taste and instead, I start thinking about what benefits that meal will bring me. What veggies are included? What proteins? How will this affect my day and fitness plan?

2. Choose Wisely
I don't know about you, but when I plant myself on the couch, I suddenly am starving! Thoughts of popcorn, ice cream, and junk food start flying at me! I now keep smarter food choices on hand. Air-popped popcorn is quite filling and tastes wonderful, especially lightly salted. Also, there are plenty of low calorie chips if you're looking for a salty snack. My favorite is Light Pringles, or Light Ruffles. As far as dessert goes, frozen yogurt and light ice cream are great alternatives to the real things. Flavorwise, you cannot tell the difference with most of them.

3. Keep it Movin'!
One of our worst enemies is boredom. This can lead to mindless eating and binging. When you find yourself in this common situation, get up and MOVE! Go for a walk, read a book, start a project...whatever will keep you busy and not munching!

Let's make this week a GREAT one. :)