I’ve been doing so well.
My family went out to lunch to celebrate my mum’s birthday and nephew’s graduation. This was a day I planned to just relax and enjoy some foods that weren’t necessarily on my plan.
It was a lovely lunch. The seaside restaurant, the ambiance, friendly staff, family and of course the food! My thoughts? Today, I will eat dairy and bread without being concerned. Today, I will not be picky about calories, fats or sugar.
I was excited and ate all of my food – the appetizer, main and dessert but I only enjoyed the first few bites of each dish. Why was that?
I felt uncomfortable, bloated and heavy. This discomfort was one that I’d experienced many times in the past. For years I suffered with bloating and discomfort after eating. I was eventually diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). My body’s reaction to the foods at lunch were really just a reminder, a confirmation, that there are certain foods (e.g. dairy and those with gluten) which my body doesn’t handle very well.
A few hours later, I was tired, achy, and miserable. My husband jokingly teased that my body was no longer accustomed to the food that I ate at lunch. He was right (but we will not tell him lol).
I felt better the next day but I was still craving high sugar and high fat foods. I turned to the things at home: bread, cheese, chocolate and ice-cream. I felt confused and mentally off kilter.
I will not be discouraged.
I saw those few days as a step backwards on my journey but I learned a lot from the experience. I realised that at this point, I MUST stick to a plan.
I’m not in a place where I can have a “cheat day” and easily jump back onto my programme. I was not ready.
I appreciate that everyone is different, but I’ve learnt that right now, I must be as disciplined as possible. I can easily fall back into old, unhealthy patterns. What’s my plan?
Going forward, I will plan ahead when eating out or even attending functions. This means checking the menu beforehand and carefully planning what I will eat. It may still include a dessert or a drink but I will eat as “clean” as possible.
I must have the self-discipline to say “no”, even when others may be encouraging us to “live a little”. We must remain focused on our desires and goals.
Many people, including those who are closest to me, may not understand or agree when I decide to change my lifestyle. Many times, you may have doubts and question whether you’re doing the right thing just because of the resistance you may encounter.
When doubts creep in – and they do – I ask myself, “how badly do I want this?”
Are the rewards I want today worth sacrificing my goal of a healthier tomorrow?
