![Eternal Outlook [with Angela]](http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4ljJqTmbtM/TxYDnuPF8UI/AAAAAAAAAww/8UaV93yusJM/s1600/Angela%2527s%2BHeader%2B2011-1.jpg)
However, after making this decided statement, I couldn't help but notice that the topic of sugar and its detrimental effects began popping up everywhere--so much so that I decided maybe I should pay it some attention. So one night about a month ago I ran out the door to the library to check out Nourishing Traditions: The Cookbook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats. It sat on my kitchen counter for several weeks waiting for me to find the time to open it up and start reading; and with each day of not reading that passed, I started to talk myself out of even trying to find the time to read it.
In the meantime, there were several occasions that I noticed I felt poorly immediately after eating a bowl of ice cream or a handful of chocolate or other candy. The feeling was "off" enough that for the short while it lasted I thought to myself, That wasn't worth it. Why eat something that makes me feel so not good? And so I was re-inspired to open up Nourishing Traditions. The day after it was due (Yes, it was overdue. Oops!), I finally sat down and started reading and then promptly called the library to renew it for another month.
I still have a TON to read and learn; but with the beginning of a new month approaching (which means a fresh start on stocking the cupboards AND a fresh supply of grocery cash), my plan is to start making some changes in the way I feed myself and my family. I'm certain this isn't going to be easy (I've been snacking on chocolate chips while I write this....), but I feel like I wouldn't be doing the best thing for my family if I don't give this my best try.
I said I could never do it. I hope I was wrong....
9 comments:
Ooohhh Angela... This will be such an exciting "journey" for you. I know you are going to reap wonderful rewards from this.
We have many transitions in this area over the years,, and although it takes determination, prayer, and a little more time...It is so worth the efforts.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me...
I will be thinking of you... You CAN do it!
Angela,...It is so worth it! I will pray that you will succeed. Think of it as a game and just give it your all. It does get easier after you just "get going". I know all of that stuff, and I do good at winning the game when I really commit to it.
You will reap rewards, and as I said, it will be worth it. And so good for your family.
My daughter Lynnette (Dancing Barefoot) could be a good one to cheer you on. She has been committed to eating right for years. I am sure she would be glad to offer advice and encouragement.
Love and Prayers,
Linda @ Truthful Tidbits
Baby steps is the key to altering your lifestyle. Taking out sugar is a wonderful first step. What I am about to say sounded absolutely crazy to me a year ago, but....it only takes about two weeks of withdrawl cravings to un-addict yourself from sugar. One thing I've learned is that when you are craving sugar, eat fat instead...that's what your body is actually needing. Crispy almonds from NT and some dried cherries are my favorite afternoon snack now.
You can do it!!! It is worth the feeling of health and the purification of your temple.
BTW, I still eat sugar now and then, but I certainly don't crave it like I once did. I can't wait to hear how your new month goes! Call me if you need any tips on shopping and planning. Don't overburden yourself, though...you have four excellent priorities to focus on! Take it one change at a time.
So funny you should blog about this b/c Nick and I made the decision to change out diet starting Nov.1 too! :) No more sugar in the house (as much as I LOVE ice cream) and less processed/refined foods....we are actually doing a "fast" where we are just eating fresh fruits and veggies and then either eggs or some other non-meat protein source...we'll see how it goes :) But we really want to purify our bodies...AND if they could do it in the OT ...why can't we, right? :)
Anyway....good luck! you can do it! :)
I go organic with kitchen staples that I buy in bulk from the food co-op in Sioux Falls, qunioa, brown rice, couscous, pasta, soba noodles.
And we buy agave nectar, local honey and molasses there too. If you start with those two classes of foods-- it's a gradual transistion.
Plus I don't buy canned beans I buy dried and cook them in the crockpot. We buy (or recieve) our beef from a local farmer friend and we can buy chicken locally too.
You have to spend a little time to seek out local/healthy food. But just make yourself a list of resources. It takes a little ahead-of-time-planning, but it really will become a way of life soon.
That doesn't mean that I don't crave ice cream-- (:
We eat somewhat according to Nourishing Traditions too...and you don't have to totally give up ice cream! If you have an ice cream maker, try the recipe on my blog. It's made with maple syrup instead and is delicious!
I had the same thoughts as you, Angela. Thankfully, there are enough people eating this way now, that you will eventually find yummy recipes that are similar (or better!) to the favorites you have always loved!
I agree with Marcia...about two weeks to withdraw from sugar.
My biggest mistake after reading Nourishing Traditions is that I thought I had to make EVERYTHING from scratch (yogurt, butter, stock, etc.) and buy EVERYTHING organic and it became overwhelming and expensive. It was good to realize we have the freedom to make wise decisions that work for our own family.
You can do this Angela! We took the dive over a year ago, (we already ate pretty well) and I can't imagine going back!
We eat the most delicious homemade chocolate coconut milk ice cream, frequently.
Also, last weekend we made awesome pumpkin spice lattes that were beyond healthy! We do eat lots of meat and veggies too ;-)
You already have offers of help, let me add my name to the list.
I have come up with the perfect way to meal plan (for our family) implementing Nourishing Traditions, making sure to include the 'tasks' that need to be done ahead of time.
God be with you!
In Him,
Michelle
You sound like me -- reading about healthy eating while snacking on chocolate chips and almonds! There is nothing like dark chocolate and nuts together! :)
I am struggling my way through the NT book (it takes a lot of focus for me to absorb it all.) and the WAP website. I am also learning a wealth of info from many bloggers who are making the transition to healthier eating.
I am most worried about finding the time and the money. Where I live there aren't any good health food stores, so it is going to be a huge challenge for me.
May the Lord bless your efforts!
Elizabeth
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