The U.S. is growing larger in their waistlines. According to this health article on CNN, 31 states showed an increase in obesity. Mississippi led the way with 29.5 percent of adults considered obese. This is a scary thought. People are just not exercising and it's taking a toll. I can understand this trend of overweight adults. I am one of them. I am not obese but I am way over my normal weight. Fortunately, I have had a change of attitude and have been working out everyday. I have lost 8 lbs. just by changing what I eat and exercising A LOT more.
The Way I Was
My usual routine would be skipping breakfast or eating breakfast that came from a drive-thru window. Lunch would be dining at a restaurant choosing sandwiches & chips. Dinner would be either fast-food again or cooking something and eating enough portions for 2 people. My exercise routine didn't exist. I put on pounds. Looking back, I don't think I could ever go back to that way of life. Now I wake up every morning to eat a light breakfast (usually cereal & fruit), I go to the gym before noon running 2 - 3 miles and some weights. Lunch is light and dinner is a decent portion with vegetables. I eat way more fruit and vegetables now.
Change Will Come
I weigh myself everyday (some people say you shouldn't) but I like to know that I am still on track. Maybe I will do it less frequently when I reach my goal weight. I look at myself in the mirror and I can see how my mid-section has shrunk. It makes me proud and pushes my motivation levels so that I want to keep going to the gym to keep seeing results. Besides the physical aspects, I also feel great emotionally. My energy levels are much higher than my couch potato days. I feel more alert and happier in general. The first few weeks of my lifestyle change was difficult. I missed eating junk and drinking sodas. Now I know those types of foods bring me down and make me feel like a slug.
When I see those types of foods I literally think of them as "poison." My fridge has a nice stockpile of fruits and vegetables at all times. I adore spinach and use it like lettuce. If you are just starting a wellness routine of good diet and exercise or are struggling with the process - don't give up. Change comes and when it does, it will motivate you to keep going. Some people have more to lose than others. Some people are at a good weight but are extremely out of shape becoming winded walking up a flight of stairs. Everyone is different but it takes time for everyone to reach their goals. Patience is indeed a virtue but you'll be proud of yourself for sticking it out!
