How to Get on the Right Food Track

By Sandy Schroeder

Where do you stand or slip on food? We all eat a little or a lot, several times or just a few meals a day, and our choices range from first-rate to not so great.

I have been down several food tracks, some fun, others funny, and some downright dangerous. If you can relate, you may recognize these scenes. 

I arrive at work (when we all had offices) - I am carrying a fast food breakfast box. Later I will eat a burger in front of my computer and pick up takeout on the way home. Later I will wrap up the day with a big bowl of ice cream. 

Quite some time ago, as a newlywed - I got Betty Crocker and Spice Island cookbooks, and learned how relaxing and how much fun it could be to bake fresh apple pies, make chili, or whip up bacon and cheese omelets. 

In between, I celebrated food with my family -We roasted a turkey and made homemade stuffing with all of the trimmings. We also baked pumpkin bread at Halloween and trays of cookies for Christmas and New Year's. 

Along the way, I  gained 20 pounds - I lost it and regained it, as I learned what emotional eating was all about. Whenever there was a problem I chose food to escape. 

When difficult people showed up - When way too many demands accumulated, a large pizza with a brew or two worked just fine. 

Later, when I lost weight - I found out how much better thin felt than french fries tasted, as I dropped a couple jean sizes and bought a new wardrobe.  

These are just a few examples of what can happen. Many of us hop around, playing the weight game, sneaking in a few junk food splurges, and shopping the local farmers market or fresh fish counter as we pursue better health, lower blood pressure and fewer pounds. 

Often, to keep everything on the plus side, we walk, run, or work out every day. If we are lucky, we escape diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic diseases.  

Where Do You Fit? 

Or here's a better question: Where do you want to be? 

I want to lose about 10 pounds and spend more time outdoors exercising. I also want to  cook more healthy meals for my family and enjoy more dinners with them..  

Wherever you are, enjoy as much healthy food as possible, and keep moving.  

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Palm Harbor, Fla.