A reader recently asked me if I have had cheat days during my weight loss journey. I thought this was a wonderful question and wanted to post a community response here because others may have similar questions.
This is a life long journey for me not just about weight loss but also about maintaining a healthy and sustainable life. Something that has been key to my success on this journey is having a positive mind set about weight loss and healthy living. So I never really thought about having “cheat” days. Actually, I don’t have “cheat” days, instead I like to call them my “treat” days = ) On my treat days, I get to eat foods that I especially love but know aren’t the healthiest for my diet. For example, veggie pizza and desserts especially yummy home baked cupcakes! I try my best to also have these foods in their healthiest version (example, veggie pizza with whole wheat honey crust or fat free/sugar free cupcakes). I also keep track of the portion size and calories/or Weight Watchers points of these foods so that I know I am not going overboard. These treat days really help me stay on track and stick to healthy eating because I am not deprieving myself of any foods, and I can still go out and eat at some my favorite restaurants. For instance, I can still go out to my favorite New York City Bakery, Bouchon and still enjoy their infamous TKO cookie which is like a rich oreo cookie with white chocolate ganache…mmmm. At times this journey can be difficult and fustrating, but remember you still need to enjoy yourself and eat the things you love! Just with moderation and good conscious.
Even on the the hard days, we must remind ourselves of how far we’ve come and where we want to be. For me I’m at a place in my life that is much more healthier and enjoyable. Today I can go for long runs, bike rides in the park, laps in the pool, and enjoy life so much more than I was able to do when I was overweight, unhealthy and often exhausted. I don’t ever see myself going back to my old lifestyle because I know my health and life are too precious to just waste away. It’s a beautiful life so let’s enjoy it = )
Best,
Theresa
