If You Buy It, They Will Come!

I may be in the minority, but I have never watched the popular movie "Field of Dreams". However, I have heard alot of referrence to a line from the movie. The popular phrase, "If you build it, they will come". Recently, I have thought about that comment in relation to healthy living.

In my adaptation of the phrase, "If you buy it, they will come!", the "it" I am referring to is unhealthy (or "junk") food. The "they" I'm referring to is extra pounds which may be gained as a result of consuming alot of unhealthy foods and beverages. So, my toughts are if you try to avoid buying unhealthy food & beverage choices, then it will make it easier to maintain or achieve your healthier lifestyle. It may seem like a no-brainer to some, but actually making this habit a part of your healthy lifestyle may not be that easy.

Start with a plan! Try to plan your healthy meals and snacks in advance. Make sure you stock your home with a good variety of healthy items. When you grocery shop do you use a list or just randomly pick up items? Make a grocery list before you do your shopping and try your best to stick to the list. The list may save you time, money and may save you from the temptation of buying alot of unhealthy groceries.

Try new things! I'm a very picky eater and used to be extremely limited in my diet. My diet mainly consisted of pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, Philly steak sandwiches and Ben & Jerry's Phish Food. I know that was pretty pathetic but that's what I liked and that's what I used to eat ALL of the time. When I decided I wanted to start being healthier I knew I definitely had to expand my variety of foods. I started gradually trying new things and have expanded my options considerably! Surprisingly, I am very content these days with my healthier food choices and have learned to love Broccoli (which I never would have imagined me ever saying nor admitting) and have added trail mix to the list of snacks I like.

What's your living situation? I know that everyone's living situation is different and sometimes living with others can make your plans for improved health or weight loss a little more difficult but you have to remain determined. If you live with others, you made need to make additional plans/arrangements and ask for a little support in your efforts. Maybe you can negotiate to limit the number of unhealthy items in your home. Leading by example can sometimes help encourage others around you to want to strive for a healthier lifestyle too.


After you make your serious commitment for improved health or weight loss, you have to stay motivated and focused on your goals! Be patient and persistent in your efforts! Remember that nobody's perfect. There may be small stumbling blocks along the way, but if you happen to trip over one, make sure you pick yourself back up and continue on your path to improved health. “Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”-John Quincy Adams.


Quick Tips:

Be Adventurous! I was hesitant to try some new foods but I am very grateful I did. I make alot more healthier choices and I suprisingly don't really miss the "junk" food. Having alot of options of healthy foods I like has helped me tremendously.

Practice Moderation! Even some of the healthier choices can add up to alot of extra caloreis if you indulge too much. Be careful of the serving size!

Clean for Spring! Keep unhealthy foods out of the house. If the food is not easily accessible, then that should help fight your temptations a great deal.

Stay Active! Move around and burn some calories. Think about taking a walk or doing some type of physical activity when you are bored instead of eating.

Think Before You Drink! Be sure to read the labels on your beverages. Be aware of the calories in any alcohol you consume. Beverage calories count too!

Additional Info:

MayoClinic.com: Snacks: How they fit into your weight-loss plan

WebMD: Healthy Snacks For Weight Loss Quiz

Healthy vs. Junk Snacks: How We Choose

*This was written for informational purposes only. Always consult your physician before beginning an exercise program or modifying your diet.