How do I start cleaning up my diet and feeling better?

Several of my friends have been asking me this. And, I get it. It's a little overwhelming. The thought of replacing Chick-fil-A with brown rice and lentils does not seem fun. Even in my head, that sentence doesn't sound fun. But the good news is, it only takes a little to make a big difference. And the more you do, the better you feel, the more your clothes fit, and MOST importantly, the happier you feel. 


1. Find a "why": Find a reason why you want to clean up your diet. 

• Do you want to explore the mood-food connection? Do you think that maybe your depression, anxiety or stress can be improved just by changing your diet? It's worth a try. 
• Did you just experience a life transition? Life transistions often bring stress. Did you move, get divorced, or just have a baby? You can eat certain foods and drink tea to help manage stress. You can learn the effects of your food on your body so that you can pass that knowledge on to your child. 
• Are you sick? There are numerous studies indicating the role of nutrition in reducing inflammation (root of illness), and enhancing your health. 

2. Start slow - gradually add in healthful foods

• Start by adding in vegetables. Green smoothies are a great way to do this. You will feel the results, quickly, from eating green leafy vegetables. Here are a couple of recipes that my family (baby included) love.                                 Banana Peach Bliss

Or this antioxidant one... 

3. Be kind to yourself. 

• Improve your self talk - making changes takes time. How old are you? It's taken that many years to develop your current eating and self care habits. Sometimes it takes a little while, and a lot of support to make changes. Be nice to yourself. What would you tell your best friend if they were embarking on a health quest? Say that to yourself. For most of us, it's an ongoing journey. You won't reach the ending... you just keep on going, and learning... and eating. : ) 

4. Find some time for yourself. 

• This one is hard. Especially if you are a parent or busy at work. This doesn't necessarily mean vegging out in front of the t.v... take walks, take time to breathe, mindfully eat (no t.v.), mediate, pray, do whatever it takes to recharge. 

5. Get support

• Whether it's a health coach, a friend or family member, find people who will support you in making changes. We gain tremendously when those we love support us. Ask for support... maybe you will find another health seeking person to make changes with you. 
• Start reading. 
• Click here to get your Free E-Book from IIN. This is what started me on my path to wellness. It's an awesome book. 
• Anything from Kathy Freston
• Clean

6. Eat your fast food, ice cream and junk. 

• Yea, I said it. As long as you are adding in those veggies and extra water, go ahead and follow your craving. In time, they will diminish. If they don't subside, seek that support again, and a health coach (like me). There are definitely emotional ties to cravings. Deconstructing them can be very freeing and empowering. 

The more you do to take care of yourself, the better you will feel, and the more you will realize when you are out of sync. Your internal barometer will be strengthened. 

If you would like more info on how to making healthy changes, email me at theplantbasedhealthcoach@gmail.com 

Happy health!