Many folks want to change their eating habits primarily because of their health or weight, so they start unrealistic and unhealthy diets. The reality is that our health and weight can only improve when we alter our relationship with food. Many individuals have an unhealthy relationship with food that stems from several factors that they are often unaware of. Several situations impact how well we eat.
There are a few things to consider when changing your eating habits: 1. your genetics, 2. potential health risks, 3. cooking ability, 4. budget and 5. access to healthy foods (yes, some areas do not provide fresh produce). It helps to review your needs and your limitations when it comes to improving your eating habits. It is not enough to need to change; you must also have a method that helps you obtain results. Take some time to write down a list of things to consider when making changes in the way you eat:
- What food groups do you struggle to avoid eating? Do these food groups consist of sweets, fried foods, salt, or processed foods?
- What type of food budget do you have? Are you working, collecting food stamps, or depending on others to feed you?
- What type of local food sources do you have access to?
- Do you have any way of growing vegetables or herbs? A window, backyard, or local community garden?
- How often do you eat? And are you eating full meals or snacks?
- Do you have any health issues? Diabetes, low blood sugar, Anemia, chronic illness, etc. Or does chronic illness run in your family?
- Do you consume alcohol or medications, or street drugs?
- Do you sleep enough hours when you go to bed?
- Do you work, and if you do, how many hours a week do you work?
- Do you know how to cook, and if you do, how often do you cook?
- Do you have access to a kitchen? And if not, how do you prepare your meals?
- How often do you eat out? And why?
I listed some topics above because eating is not just about food selection but economic realities. Not everyone can afford decent food or have access to a kitchen. Many assume that folks eat incorrectly because they are unaware of how to eat. But some folks do know about the benefits of good food, but their reality does not permit them to cook. Here are some options that may help:
- Learn new recipes to expand your cooking ideas.
- Frozen fruits and vegetables are a better option than can goods.
- Buy what you need to avoid throwing out spoiled food.
- Get a list of the local farmers' markets. If you are on a fixed income, many vendors at the farmers market take food stamps.
- Plant as many herbs and vegetables as possible in your home. If you have a window only, use small containers.
- Join community gardens.
- Learn to drink more water since thirst is often confused with hunger.
- Rest even if you are not sleepy to reboot your energy levels.
- When tired, rest rather than recharge with sugar or caffeine
Remember, your food choices should reflect your tastes, lifestyle, cooking ability, and access to resources. Your specific eating style can consist of anything you enjoy; fish with veggies, meat, and veggies, a strict vegan or vegetarian diet, Mediterranean-style food, or whatever fits your lifestyle or budget. The key to improving your relationship with food is making conscious choices that are realistic and doable for you. Avoid following trends or dietary recommendations that do not meet your health profile or reality, even if it comes from a doctor on YouTube. Remember, this is a blog about eating healthy and not weight loss or trendy diets
Copyright 2023 R. Castro
Resources:
Healthy Eating Ideas
https://youtu.be/9h9S9kD67-Q
https://youtu.be/Gloa9Rcm7T0
https://youtu.be/u4yibn5XC7k
Wall gardens
https://youtu.be/bad0OPKW6HM
Creating a balcony Garden
https://youtu.be/7Xm7nkb4XfA
Building gardens in small places
https://youtu.be/o_RZhQVN1s4
Starting a garden on a low budget
https://youtu.be/5XKv3-a_QaY
How to make growing pots for small spaces
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