News Taffy

Boy, I love to give successful updates! I reported last week that I was going to try the 17 Day Diet half way; that is I would follow it at breakfast, snacks and lunch. Of course, I’ve been trying to eat more veggies and lean protein at dinner too and step up the exercise routine a bit. So far I’ve lost 5 pounds in 10 days and about 1/2 inch. The weekend was really hard as I had to go out of town and eat in restaurants. Still I managed to make the best choice I could by choosing grilled tuna and salad for dinner and a grilled chicken wrap for lunch and avoiding alcohol. I did have 1/2 a cream cheese and strawberry brioche for breakfast. We can’t pass up all opportunities to try things, can we?

I’ve been doing two things I think have helped. I’ve eaten mostly eggs for breakfast with some grapefruit. Since I never met a carb I didn’t love, this is a big change from my usual cereal but I must admit I’ve not been starved by 10 a.m. Then I’ve had a big salad at lunch with tomatoes, sweet peppers, broccoli, carrots, walnuts, craisins and chicken. Again, I’ve noticed I have less cravings and feel fuller longer. Now let’s stop right here for a confession: no, my cravings for certain things haven’t gone away and yes, it has been very hard at times. Yesterday I was at a college tour with my son and there was a plate of beautifully decorated cookies and drinks set out for the parents. I had a hard time walking away from them and then I had to sit between two parents while they ate cookies. I concentrated on the size of my butt.

So you see that even the dedicated cardiologist’s wife can learn a few new things and that I’m not immune to the same temptations you face. Being a foodie, it can be so hard not to eat and drink the things I love or to try new things like the brioche. But I really don’t like the fact that I’ve over done it the last couple of months and that my capris and jeans are too tight. So I’m fighting back and so should you! It can be as simple as eating a good breakfast and lunch and skipping the crap you know you shouldn’t eat.

Here are a couple of other tips if you are trying this or any other decent diet plan. Boil some eggs at night for a quick breakfast and buy some precut fruit if time is a factor in the morning. I also grilled extra chicken on Sunday so I could have it for lunch this week. Brush your teeth right after dinner at night so you won’t be as tempted to sneak in a late snack before bed.

If you didn’t see his first series, chef Jamie Oliver is back with his Food Revolution starting April 12th, 7 p.m. on ABC. I recommend watching it with your family. I know of one child who decided to eat better after watching his first show.

Also, come on out the weekend of April 16 and 17 for the HMG Health and Fitness Expo. There will be lots of free tests available and all kinds of health information. I will be doing a cooking demo on Saturday at 4 p.m. Hope to see you there!