The View From The Bridge – The Intake Challenge

A few weeks ago, my daughter challenged me to a “No Bread” diet. She was preparing for a big event, and wanted to shed a few pounds, so having no bread was going to be her way to lose the weight. Doubting that I would do it, she asked me anyway. I, of course, (actually doubting myself,) surprisingly said I was up for the challenge. Four days went by and guess what: I was doing well and surviving without any bread! For me, bread is an essential part of my day but those four days, I felt so good being successful with the challenge.

The fifth day presented itself, and I heard my daughter saying that we could have a cheat day. Well it didn’t take much for me to agree! I had been so good for four whole days, and now I was ready for a cheat day. Poor me, thinking I had starved myself, and then in that short instance all my will power went out the window. Can you believe that? Sadly, of course, I know you can.

Success wasn’t living here; bread was just on a short vacation, and was making its way back. Yes, I caved in and had some bread. Feeling guilty, I only had one piece on my chicken sandwich. Overall, it didn’t seem that bad. The next day, I could feel it. My indigestion was back, and it was as if my body was rejecting that one piece of bread.

As I share this personal story, I have learned that although we may love the taste of various foods, they are not always needed, nor are they good for us. After having the indigestion, I vowed to give the no bread diet another try. After all, it made me feel better, and I didn’t realize how much better until I decided to be counterproductive.

Sad, but so. We start and stop these yo-yo diets all the time, and in some strange way wonder why we are not successful. For many, counterproductive activity is common place when working on weight loss goals, making it extremely difficult to see lasting results.

I am reminded of Oprah Winfrey’s phrase for 2016 “to have the best body ever.” I too want to work toward that goal, and it starts with doing what is realistic and not losing yourself to a moment of weakness.

Read the tips below to gain a boost on your journey to your best body ever.
• Plan your healthy meals ahead, and prepare your food for the entire week, even though it is “easier” to grab and go
• Keep a food log to track what you are eating and how you feel. Try the “My Fitness Pal” tracker tool.
• Eat 5-6 times a day, but smaller portions. This will cause your body to burn more calories throughout the day.
• Drink a minimum of 1 gallon of water each day.
• Enlist a “challenge buddy.” If you have that urge to cheat or quit, then you have someone to keep you accountable and makes you think twice about your decision.
• Go to bed early, and get 8 hours of sleep each night.