I had a little meltdown last night. It was just after a big Publix grocery shop and just before dinner. The question was WHAT TO EAT? Wanting to lean away from animal products, processed foods, high carbs, high calories, toxins, sugars, salts, additives, preservatives AND maintain an “ideal” body weight is hard enough, but couple that with post-menopause and it is even more challenging! Thankfully, I had the base of a salad already leftover from Thursday night feast and in just a few minutes turned that into a satisfying meal, but it was definitely short on protein.
I have come to believe that we don’t need nearly as much protein as we are led to believe by the meat and dairy industry. BUT I also believe that after menopause we need more protein to maintain a lean body. Though soy is a WONDERFULLY versatile product and has many health benefits, too much of it may be a bad thing and as I read between the lines, I believe it may mess with our metabolism. Since the burgers and frozen products have ingredients I cannot pronounce, I shy away from those. Rice and beans have too many carbs and calories to replace a lean protein so though they are a staple for many a leaner, younger vegan, they are NOT for me or my butt and thighs.
When in getting in to bed last night, I couldn’t watch another re-run of Seinfeld and flipped on public television to watch Dr. Amen talk about his book Change Your Brain, Change Your Body. It’s on my list of must reads, along with Spark, Eating Animals, Food Rules and The Kind Diet, by Alicia Silverstone who claims that becoming a vegan allowed her to feel better, lose weight and clear up her once miserable skin. My husband says I have every book on the self-improvement table at Barnes and Noble, but apparently I am way behind B&N lately!
My husband also believes that moderation is the key to all things. I know he is right. It’s my own struggle right now with finding what is right for my body and my soul. Maybe after I get through with all of the above books I’ll have all the answers 🙂 Until then all I can say is…….. THANK GOODNESS FOR LETTUCE!
Don’t forget to set your clocks an hour ahead tonight, before going to sleep. It’ll be a little tough waking up for work Monday morning, but the extra hour of sunlight in the evening should make it easier for most of us to get in some outdoor activities after the work day. Bigred doesn’t know it yet, but he might be taking 2 walks a day through spring and summer! What’s good for him, is good for us, too!
This day is probably my second favorite day of the year, only second to the first day of spring, which is next week! It seems like a moment ago we were talking new year’s resolutions and now bathing suit weather is rapidly approaching. Are YOU ready?
Bonni, don’t be so hard on yourself. You look GREAT! Your work-outs are challenging, You eat so healthy. Smile!!! Embrace yourself and just love the skin that you are in!!! You are an inspiration to others and all of us LOVE you!