Most of us already know what we are NOT supposed to eat, but just for the record, according to the U.S. Senate Select committee:

1.  Increase consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

2. Decrease consumption of meat, and increase consumption of poultry and fish.

3. Decrease consumption off foods high in fat.

4. Substitute nonfat milk for whole milk.

5. Decrease consumption of butterfat, eggs and other high-cholesterol sources.

6. Decrease consumption of sugar and foods high in sugar content.

7. Decrease consumption of salt and foods high in salt content.

In other words, LESS meat and animal fats, sugar and salt, and MORE fruits, vegetables, and fiber.

We know it’s hard to do this, your first instinct is to feel that it’s like, okay, no more yummy stuff, and only the yucky stuff.  But, have faith, this is NOT true.

It’s a conditioned reaction created by media, habits from youth, and public perception that you can overcome.  Healthy foods CAN be yummy!

The trick is to consciously remind yourself that there are some incredibly delicious foods out there that are also good for you!  I know it’s hard to believe, but if you begin to search for those foods that you like AND are healthy, you can build a collection of recipes and dishes to reinforce the “new” idea (new to your deep subconscious that does not want to listen), that giving up “bad” foods is equivalent to suffering and even self-deprivation or suffering.

Step one in changing your lifestyle to be healthier:  Be aware of the foods you come across that are healthy and add them to your box of goodies (that is, food that is good for you, not cookies!).  Even if it’s a certain fruit, make a recipe card, write the name of the fruit on it and drop it in your box.)

Change does not happen overnight, but it seems to be easier if you start with baby steps, one step at a time.