
Friday, November 5
My month-long battle against fast food is finally over. My fast has ended.
It took a lot of mental strength for me to resist temptation and ignore the commands of my appetite to eat whatever pleased my senses – the junk food that’s everywhere, looking and smelling delicious.
I look back on where I was at the beginning of this experiment and compare that to where I am now. My mood was altered because I could not eat fast food. I became angry at times when I could not give in to my cravings and buy McDonald’s french fries.
My anger was a signal that I had a problem: I was a fast food addict.
Throughout this experiment, my meals have been well portioned and nutritious. At least, I’ve did the best I could. And there was a lot to that – being more deliberate about my eating choices, reading labels, considering what I put into my body before putting down my hard earned cash for a meal. Starting my day with oatmeal and boiled eggs (instead of a Big Country breakfast burrito from Carl’s Jr.) provided me with nutrients that were sufficient for my mind and body.
I had turkey sandwiches for lunch, fish with broccoli and carrots for dinner. That all feels like a world away from the Burger King Whopper burger meal with fries I use to eat regularly.
Through my new diet, I’ve learned that, while it’s important to manage your weight, it’s even more important to care for your body internally by having a proper diet.
Here is one of my greatest triumphs: I’ve just about broken the habit of being a slave to my junk food cravings. I’ve strengthened my self-control. Some may think because this journey has ended that I will return to the Big Macs, fries, sodas, chocolate sundaes, and eat whatever other fast food I please. I’ve heard people say it takes about six weeks to make or break a habit. Well, my fast food fast was about 31 days, and I consider my addiction broken!
I feel I’ve restrained my taste buds somewhat. When I smell KFC’s chicken or when the aroma of McDonald’s food wraps itself around my nose, I actually feel a bit nauseous now. I just don’t crave it all anymore.
Although my “no fast food” diet is supposed to be over, I plan on maintaining my new-found habits. Not to say that I won’t ever eat out again, but I will keep it very limited for the sake of my life.
The next obstacle I’m tacking head on is my sweet tooth. I crave chocolate more than anything. I’m taking things one step at a time. I look forward to continuing my new diet and becoming more healthy as it becomes a new habit and leads me to a healthier lifestyle.
To me, this ultimately means a better, longer life.
Please see the links in the byline above the story for more information about the authors of this articles.
here’s another reason to keep up with your new ways !
http://thestir.cafemom.com/food_party/112338/whats_killing_you_faster_fast