Overcoming the “F” Word

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    Overcoming the "F" Word - Columbia SC Moms BlogFAT.

    I am on a mission to become a better and healthier version of myself. When I topped the scale at over 220 pounds, I knew I had to do something. I felt disgusted with myself, huge, and ugly. I needed to make time for my body and put my health first. It was important to me to be a healthier role model for my children and family.

    When you have several little people and a husband to tend to 24/7, you have to MAKE time for YOU. I want to teach my kids to make healthy choices.

    It’s so hard to make healthy choices in a world where fast food and junk are so accessible. I can literally see McDonald’s “golden arches” from the top of my driveway. During my latest pregnancy (three years ago), McDonald’s chicken nuggets were the only thing I could keep down during my first trimester. Needless to say my weight skyrocketed 50+ pounds, and it’s been so difficult to lose. But I will lose it!

    mcdonalds-839352_1280~2
    Fast food was a tempting option during my pregnancy.

    The other week my teenage daughter came to me and said “the next time I ask for a snack just tell me no.” This broke my heart. Middle school can be a cruel place for a young women. My daughter is 5’6 and is definitely not overweight. I am encouraging her to make healthier choices. But I am SO TIRED of fat AND skinny shaming. It is an epidemic in our society.

    Why is it that people think they can comment on someone else’s weight? Whether they are your friend, family member, or a random stranger – please stop telling people they are too fat or too skinny! I told my daughter that she needs to make her own healthy choices, but I encourage these choices by keeping healthy food and snacks in the house.

    Whether someone is overweight or average, it isn’t your place to comment on someone’s appearance unless you are saying, “I care about you. How can I help you make healthier choices?” Making references to someone’s weight can cause serious eating disorders. We should be concerned about other people’s health rather than their appearance.

    I have been the victim of fat shaming. This has caused me tremendous pain, and not a day goes by that I don’t think about those hurtful words. My body has birthed two beautiful babies both over 8 1/2 pounds. I have struggled with my weight since I lost my sister when I was 17. Having to occasionally take steroids for allergies hasn’t helped. Big can be beautiful but it does not mean healthy.

    It's a great idea to take before and after photos so you can really see your progress!
    It’s a great idea to take before and after photos so you can really see your progress!

    For a very long time I had a very unhealthy relationship with food. It was my comfort. Bad day with the kids? Eat a bunch of ice cream or fast food.

    That was the old me.

    Unhealthy food was like what alcohol is to an alcoholic. You wouldn’t take a recovering alcoholic to a bar, visit their home and leave a 6-pack in the fridge, or offer them a drink. So I try not to buy junk food. I try not to go through drive-thru restaurants, and I don’t frequent buffets.

    I’ve learned to control my emotional cravings for food. To help with this, we have a junk food cabinet that is separate from all other food. That way I don’t have to see junk food every time I open the pantry.

    I do my best to eat healthy food. I’m not on a diet. I am trying to change my life and make better choices. Every once in a while I will go out for an ice cream cone or a small dessert, because moderation is key. I do allow myself one cheat meal a week.

    I am learning to love and not judge my body no matter what shape I am. By loving myself I am making healthier food choices and I do my best to exercise daily.

    As parents, it is our responsibility to teach our children to make healthy choices not with just food and exercise but in all aspects of their life. I put up encouraging index cards in the room in our house that I exercise in, so that I can remember why I started this healthy journey.

    These note cards are posted on the wall in the room where I workout.
    These note cards are posted on the wall in the room where I workout.

    This past week during my workout I was focused on doing a move called “Mountain Climbers.” I looked over to see my 22-month-old on her hands and knees doing the exact same move! I was leading by example. I want my children to love and respect their bodies. I have lost 25 pounds and 3 dress sizes in just three months!

    Here are several activities you can do to be more active with your family:

    • Go for a walk or bike ride in your neighborhood
    • Visit a local forest and hike some trails
    • Jump rope or on a trampoline
    • Throw a ball together
    • Dance! (We love Just Dance)
    I'm not where I want to be quite yet, but I am working towards them one day at a time. Photo Credit: Emily Ann Photography
    I’m not where I want to be quite yet, but I am working towards them one day at a time. Photo Credit: Emily Ann Photography

    What does your family do to be more healthy and active?

     

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