Simple Substitutions

Weight Loss: Day 5

When trying to lose weight, our diets are one of our main focuses. Our diets, however, can also prove to be a major problem. It’s no secret that Americans eat unhealthy food. A lot of people blame these unhealthy foods for our increasing average sizes. The truth is, whether people want to believe it or not, there are more than enough healthy options for us to choose over the unhealthy ones. Now some of you are probably saying, “But healthy food is more expensive” or “I do not like healthy foods”, and some of you may even be saying “I don’t have time to make myself healthy meals!” Well, the truth is, there are healthier options that are still cheap. For those of you who do not like healthy foods, you probably just don’t like vegetables or things of the sort. And for those who think you do not have enough time, there are plenty of healthy foods that you can prepare quickly, or even “pre-make” ahead of time.

For those of you who do not know, I am a college student. And yes, the stereotypes for college students fit me perfectly. I am completely broke. I barely afford my food. Between my Biology major, my Mathematics minor, and two jobs, I do not have a lot of time. But you know what? I STILL find ways to eat healthy. When I go grocery shopping, I avoid the junk food isles all together. I understand that junk food is exceptionally cheap. I also know myself well enough to know that I cannot pass up a good deal on food. So by avoiding the junk food isles all together, I avoid all temptation to buy such unhealthy foods. When it comes to my actual food, I buy cheap, long lasting fruits and vegetables, fresh meats, wheat bread, yogurt, cereal, etc. When I am actually at the store, I do not select my food based on the number of calories. I simply choose the foods that I know are not greasy, sugary, or full of preservatives. It is much better to buy foods that you would normally see in a list of ingredients, or foods that are not already “pre-made” into meals, seeing as these usually have more preservatives, more calories, and we usually eat more than one serving at a time.

Trying to choose healthier foods can be very difficult, especially if you know you really like to snack. As I have mentioned in previous posts, will power can make or break you when it comes to weight loss. It is obviously much easier said than done, but if you have strong will power, you can do all of this! Next time you are at the grocery store, just keep these things in mind and you will slowly but surely see a change in your eating habits. And remember, there are no excuses!

Keep it Up!

Danielle ♥

P.S. I will soon be posting actual lists of healthy substitutions for our regular foods and snacks. Check back later for this post.