Substitutes- I really believe they are the key to kicking habits. It's a lot easier to switch to a healthy alternative then for someone to abstain all together. When I stopped eating meat almost a year ago now, it was much easier to resist the urge to eat a hamburger when knowing instead I could have a veggie, bean or salmon burger. Finding something to fill that void is fundamental in changing a lifestyle. Whether it be smoking, shopping or speaking out of anger we have to first identify that which needs changing and then decide an action to replace the habit. For me it helps to also focus on the reasons I need to change. Why should I stop drinking so much coffee? Well as I stated previously, I don't want to be addicted to caffeine, I also don't want to have brown teeth, cutting back will put some money in the grocery bank for other necessities, no ball and chain tying me to the coffee pot each morning, more energy and better sleep.
I have also been reading about the psychology involved with making a major life change in my nutritional counseling textbook. How do I get people to change their diet and make better food choices? There are so many factors that can be attributed to obesity and unhealthy eating habits; society and culture, income, education or lack thereof, geographical location, convenience and time, taste and preference. Many folks don't realize that eating a plant based diet is actually much more affordable than eating meats and processed foods. Yes, it will take more time to grow that garden or prepare fresh veggies vice eating them from a can, but the benefits will not only add years to your life but will also afford you the opportunity to cultivate relationships. I mean life IS a garden. What better way to teach your kids about work ethic, nurturing, planning, preparation and growth than to plant and grow your own food? There are many life lessons to be learned from one of the simplest things in life; soil, water and seeds- even for us grownups. Imagine how much better you would feel after tilling your yard in the warm, summer Saturday sun and planting the seeds of your favorite fruits and vegetables. Fewer trips to the grocery store and more money in your pocket, better quality of food and quality time with your family while caring for your crop.
How can you improve the way you and your family eat? Less fried food, more fruits and veggies, ditch the soda and surplus sugar, meatless Monday, fiber supplements? I encourage you to make a change for the better. If you need some suggestions or advice, please don't hesitate to ask me. Time is our most valuable resource and we've got to make the most of what we have. So turn off that TV and rent a gardening book from the library; we've got to study up this winter and get ready for the planting season this spring!
