Healthy Tip # 200

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Another healthy tip courtesy of Kim Evans

saladplateIn talking with people who are trying to make changes in how they eat, I always suggest that they keep a food diary for a week or so. I like to stress that it is just for their eyes…and that they need to be brutally honest about what goes in their mouth. Then after the week is over, they can see what they eat, when they eat, and how much. When you can actually see what you are eating, it is easier to make small changes that can make a difference. If they want me to look it over, I will….and make suggestions such as:

– Eat less or not any processed foods

– Substitute water for pop

– Drink plain coffee in place of a coffe drink

– Find ways to add more vegetables and fruits into your daily eating

Baby steps can make a big difference.

I also suggest that if they have issues with being out of control with certain foods…..don’t have them in the house. Seems like a no brainer to me, but lots of people do not consider that. And when they make the big step of going to the gym, I try my hardest to tell them to take it easy! There is so much enthusiasm at the beginning of the year, and lots of people overdo it, and are either too sore or get injured and then never go back to the gym. Again….those baby steps. No one got out of shape overnight, so it is unrealistic to think that you will be back in shape in a week. Patience grasshopper…….it is the journey not the end result. (I actually say that once in awhile)

– Kim Evans, BS AFAA, USATF Fitness Professional, and track and field coach Holland Aquatic Center Holland MI