Quality Over Quality

Maybe it's because I finished the fast (with the rest of my church)....and spent that time being more focused on being more disciplined physically (and spiritually, too!). Maybe it's because through fasting...I ate very, very well...plenty (actually only) of fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds. AND, I felt good...worked out 1 to 2 hours 4 to 6 days a week...with no dip in energy. Maybe it's because my co-worker (a male) noticed my skin looking clearer while fasting. Maybe it's because I'm seeing results on the scale after seemingly stalling for several weeks...Maybe it's because I was repulsed by the stories of plink slime...


Or, maybe its because I finally saw Food, Inc.


But, I want to take my healthy eating to yet another level!


Weeks ago I read this article...and I found myself already doing so many of the 15 recommended things...1. Drink water with lemon: check 2. Listen to your hunger: check 4. Eat a Salad Every Day: check (I do this pretty much every day...easy way to get my veggies in) 9. Add protein to every meal: check (for all of my major meals..I generally do that) 10. Don't drink alcohol standing up: check (actually, I don't drink at all) 11. Watch your carb serving sizes: check 12. Choose Greek Yogurt: 14. Ditch sugary drinks and sodas: check. 


I was so frustrated after reading the article I reached out to my dietitian. What more do I need to do? I felt like I was doing mostly what was right...I try to avoid foods with high fructose corn syrup, I try to pick foods with simple and natural ingredients, etc...etc...etc...

When I first started to eat healthy, every week - every month I would find some way to make the choose even better. For example, I started eating more salads (mostly romaine lettuce). Then I started mixing my romaine lettuce with a spring mix. Then I started mixing my spring mix with spinach leaves. Now I feel like I mostly eat really well (I could improve on the veggie front). But, I must admit my eating was very, very well on the fast...I tried different veggies and fruits...different recipes and different combinations. I think that's what I have been missing.

So, here's my challenge to myself...to choose quality over quality. Try different things, different combinations, and new recipes. Pay more attention to the sourcing of the food I eat outside of the home. Take advantage of the fresh fruit and foods at the farmer's markets (I go to the farmer's markets frequently on the weekends in the spring, summer, and early fall - but I usually buy flowers, jewlelry, and other goodies....). Eat a meatless monday once a month. Shop regularly at Trader Joe's. (KC FINALLY has one and even though its' a drive its worth going to for the selection).