Americans are obese. As much as we might like to think otherwise we are a culture of fast food and sedentary lifestyles. I am no exception. I have struggled my whole life to be healthy. I am not the person who wakes up craving fruits and vegetables. I wish I was. I crave sugar and bagels and coffee from Starbucks.
I realize though that, as a parent, it is my job to set a good example for my children. The only way they are going to grow up eating healthy and living healthy lifestyles is if I set that example for them, if we make exercise and healthy eating a part of our daily lives.
You don't have to go out and run a marathon tomorrow. You can start small. Prior to this pregnancy I had gotten into a good routine of attending Stroller Strides 2 days per week and going to the gym 3 days per week. I was proud of myself! I felt good working out and although my eating habits still needed a lot of work I felt I was taking the right steps towards a healthier me. Since I can't work out right now I find that I actually miss it. I'm looking forward to working out again after this baby is born.
Food is a much more challenging issue for me. I love to eat! I am focusing now on adding fruits and vegetables into our daily lives. I don't think you need to restrict yourself or cut out carbs or only eat meats or whatever other fad diets people go on. I think diet is a bad word. I think you have to learn to eat real foods and cut out processed foods.
Does my daughter know what a McDonald's Happy Meal is? Unfortunately yes. Does she ask for them? No. I used to never eat fast food and I am hoping to get to that point again. I want to eat real food.
Let's take this challenge together. Share in the comments section either here or on Facebook what your health goals are. Let's get healthy together!
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