Confession: I’ve let some healthy habits slide
When Allegra took up running and learned to focus on her diet, she lost 40 pounds. But this summer, she's letting her focus on those habits wane. What's the best approach going forward for runners who fall into this rut?
Confession: I’ve let some healthy habits slide.
Three years ago, I lost 40 pounds with the help of a nutritionist and regular exercise. That’s when I found running. While running was vital to keeping the weight off, it was learning about proper nutrition that really helped me make the change. Lately, however, I’ve been letting some of those habits slide.
Dieting is a word that has plagued our society for years. I feel like recently though, more people are changing their thinking to encourage eating in moderation and focusing on whole foods. For many of us who try to focus on eating properly, we can spout off a day’s worth of meals no problem.
What we’re SUPPOSEDÂ to eat:
Breakfast: Plain Greek yogurt with fruit and bran
Lunch: Kale salad with lots of vegetables, avocado, hemp hearts and pulses
Snack: Apple and natural peanut butter
Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice and steamed broccoli
What I actually do:
I know to focus on eating healthy fats, lots of vegetables, lean protein and make sure to get my fiber. Yet I’m the first person to buy my favourite chips on the way to a party (Ruffles: sour cream and onion). I’m the first to grab a second helping of my aunt’s famous bumbleberry pie. With the summer also comes barbecues, after work patio drinks and weekends at cottages where relaxation is king. I’m not saying we can’t enjoy ourselves, but there’s balance and moderation. For example, if I’ve spent the whole day reading on the dock and enjoying craft beer, do I really need that second serving of s’mores? Probably not.
When I eat with my health in mind I feel better mentally and physically. When I let things slide, the reward is merely momentary and I’m left with lingering regret thinking to myself: “Why didn’t I just order the salad?”
What’s the solution? My nutritionist gave me a tip that has stuck with me: when you treat yourself, really treat yourself. If you love fries, don’t just order them on the side of your club sandwich. Grab a friend and head to the spot that serves your absolute favourite fries. Enjoy them.
Keeping the bigger picture in mind
So, if I know what good choices are, why am I self-sabotaging and ignoring my better judgement? I think it’s because it’s summer and I’ve fallen into the season’s common trap: I’ve been thinking in the moment and not about the bigger picture.
The bigger picture is this: In August, I’ll be running a 23K trail race in Squamish, B.C. I want to finish in under three hours. If I want to get the most I out of my training, I want to fuel my body properly. This isn’t about vanity, it’s about treating my body with respect.
After a particularly indulgent weekend, I try not to beat myself up but gently remind myself of this goal. It’s a work in progress. In taking a moment the day after to revisit my goals, I hope to make better choices and reengage with my health. It’s not about harping on myself for what is in the past but reminding myself about what I can do going forward. It’s the summer, I’m only human and I’m going to take each day as it comes.
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