I am learning so much about my eating habits through journaling (or tracking) what I eat every day. There are days when I am so busy that it’s not so easy to stop what I am doing to jot down what I had for a meal or a snack. I have learned that if I put it off with thinking that I will remember and write it down later, that I don’t remember everything. Plus…I fail to eat balanced because I can’t keep a running talley in my head of the calories, or points, that I am consuming, or the correct ratio of protein, vegetables/fruit,whole grains, oils, and dairy products that are required daily.
Journaling has helped me to realize that for most of my life, I have neglected to include enough fruits, vegetables, and dairy products in my day, and eaten far more protein than is required. I also have trouble drinking enough liquids.
Journaling has also made me aware that even if I stay within my calorie ( or point) range, and neglected to consume the right amount of vegetables and fruit, that my weight loss for the week will not be as significant, but not only that, I am not getting all the necessary nutrients to remain healthy.
There are many ways to lose weight, but what we should strive for is a life style change that we can live with for the duration. Balance is key. Journaling helps us to stay in balance. It certainly works for me. It will work for you too.
