“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’ (Luke 14:28-30 28)
Many people jump into the dieting realm without counting the cost too
A sensible diet begins by contemplating ALL options of a health plan: how solid is the “soil” I’m building upon, how much time do I invest, what is the environment surrounding the “project” like? Which architect designed the plans and is he/she credible?
1. Do you decide which diet you’ll try because it’s currently popular? “Well that celebrity lost weight!” (Bear in mind that celeb has a personal trainer, chef, massage therapist, psychologist and a contract!!!)
Successful plans begin with solid foundations. Does it include wholesome complex carbohydrates, (fiber) lean protein, good fats? Steer away from fake diet gurus who advocate eliminating entire nutritionally-dense food groups because the brain’s hypothalamus will nag for specific nutrients until you give in. (But you’ll believe you have no willpower.)
2. Seek one that fits your lifestyle
Let’s say in the corporate world your job includes escorting clients to restaurants. Getting healthy will then only work if you know what constitutes sound selections like grilled meats or fish, veggies and a salad with a smidge of dressing. (Mediterranean, DASH, Volumetrics diet) Guard against peer pressure and concentrate on nutrients. Pre-plan accordingly.
3. Are you focused on an event rather than a lifestyle change? Do you contemplate the time of year or events coming up; vacations, holidays . . . parties?
Some people go on a “diet” to look good for a wedding, class reunion or other social occasion. When the event is over, so is their motivation. Ask yourself: how happy was I walking into that room feeling like a million bucks? Don’t you want to feel like that every day??? You’ve worked hard to get in shape; now use visualization/mental discipline to maintain your hard work.
The only true diet is the one you stay on forever: moderation.
4. Recognize what type of personality you have and whether it will compliment the diet plan you attempt.
For example, if you absolutely love food, going on a liquid diet will drive you crazy. Besides that, the body has an innate desire to chew (because it releases enzymes to metabolize food) and you’ll be grabbing some pretzels by 2pm.
If you’re a curious person, stay away from buffets.
5. Most importantly, you must ask: are you truly, mentally ready to impart on a lifestyle change? Have you emotionally hit rock bottom, been ridiculed or lost total control in public; been diagnosed with a debilitating health issue?
All of these questions and others must be addressed before one jumps into a health plan. Otherwise you’re set for failure and all that does is discourage, shame and have you believing the lies of the devil who whispers in your ear, “See I told you, you couldn’t do it. You’ve failed yet again!”
Crazy diets never work and yet even healthy diets won’t if you aren’t ready to change your lifestyle!
When I find myself losing control at buffets or a party, I ask myself, “Which do I love more, this food or my Lord who sacrificed himself for my gluttony and idol worship of food?”
No contest – my Lord Jesus wins every time!
“Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” (Psalm 34:8)
You make some really great points here!
I’ve had people tell me to do such and such diet and they’ve said it without any knowledge of me, and my limitations and strengths. Eating lifestyle is something I’ve had to decide on and it can be somewhat unique. There definitely are many factors to consider.
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Oh uptownflight, thank you so much! 🙂 I pray you will develop a strong, wise attitude and not be swayed by another false diet teacher who is only in it for the money. I profess the typical sensible diet plans which people can stay on for a lifetime, balancing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, herbs and seeds. Food is to be enjoyed! Read on and if you have any questions about healthy living ask away . . . I profess sensible living for God’s Glory – He doesn’t want us to suffer needlessly. Blessings back, ❤
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God bless you Ellie! You are so right about moderation. 💕
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Congratulations. I nominated you for the Light of the World Blogger Award. Should you accept, follow the rules at https://hisperfecttiming.blog/blog/.
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Should be more cost efficient.
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Ha, changing one’s attitude has a cost and patients must want t more than I want it for them, ❤
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You give great advice..
Through my life I struggled with weight.. I was the outcast because the kids at school thought fat people didn’t have feelings.. By my thirties I had reached 270 pounds.. I lost weight by walking and moderation.. Once you loose the weight your body adjusts to less food..and it is much easier not to over eat.. It is wonderful that you help others who desire to loose weight.. I feel many are emotional eaters, like I was.. Drowning your sorrows in a box of Twinkies 🙂
Jesus can heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds.. He can help us through it all..
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Oh Mary Ann, I don’t know if you’ll ever get this reply after all this time – so sorry I never was notified or saw your comment until I received the one below yours. What a great testimony you gave, thank you! Your words are right on and after 18 months later, truly hope you are still vibrant and healthier as you follow your own sensible advice. I do hope you’ll read more of my posts – so many commenters have become friends via this blog. ❤ Blessings back
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Building friendships is wonderful news!
I hope you have a Happy New Year.
God Bless.
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I believe that avoiding packaged foods would be the first step to lose weight. They might taste good, but highly processed foods have got very little vitamins and minerals, making you take in more simply to have enough strength to get over the day. When you are constantly ingesting these foods, moving over to cereals and other complex carbohydrates will help you to have more vitality while feeding on less. Good blog post.
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Hairstyles, you are so correct. Than you for commenting. People fail to distinguish between complex and simple carbs which probably drives you as crazy as it does me, 🙂 Eating anything in moderation and savoring each bite is a better way to life. Continue to have a healthier New Year! Blessings back,
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