Making good choices relies on cultivating good habits

“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” – J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Habits, anyone? With each decade and even with each year that passes, our habits become more ingrained, our beliefs and feelings about food and exercise are more difficult to change.

One concern I frequently hear is that many people are afraid that their food choices will be greatly restricted by changing their eating habits to a healthier plan. Nothing could be further from the truth! While allowing for the plethora of packaged, processed, convenience foods staring at us from grocery shelves, the opportunities for wholesome, healthy items have never been more plentiful.

However, most of these items require – you guessed it – preparation!

Actually, combining fresh ingredients and enjoying the process as well as the outcome will not only foster weight reduction and better health, but you will actually enjoy the taste of your food much more as well. Heavily processed foods dull our taste buds, using additives like excess sugar and salt as well as preservatives and chemicals – items that were never intended to nourish our bodies. In past columns I have explored alternative herbs and spices to satisfy those taste buds while giving your body (and brain!) the nourishment needed to optimally function.

I get it … who wants to think about nutrition when we have the holidays around the corner with candies, cookies, pies, cheeseballs … oh my! I like all those items as well, yum! However, you can still practice moderation without depriving yourself by limiting the goodies and/or finding alternative recipes which give you similar tastes and textures.

Will you take time away from electronic devices to walk every day, to practice stretching to keep your body flexible and balanced, to participate in some level of strength training to keep your muscles strong and toned? Referring to the “abilities” in the quote above, it is not required that we train at a competition level, but that we move our bodies as much as possible.

A positive outcome does take work, sometimes sacrifice, and focus on the goal. Success is waiting for anyone who wants to live healthier, longer, and more productively. In 2024 we are so blessed and fortunate to have access to tremendous healthcare facilities, nutrition education, walking trails, and numerous other opportunities to stay healthy and fit. No one else can make the choices for you; you are in control. If you are already there, congratulations; if you are working toward the goal but not quite there, kudos, keep it up. And if you are considering making those nutrition and fitness lifestyle changes, now is the time and you can do it!

Ladies – and those who love us – remember that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. PLEASE do not neglect your annual mammogram as well as your self-test. There have been many advances in treatment in recent years and we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to make sure we take advantage of the opportunity to be tested.

Sharon McMahon, CNWC

The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.