A Year of Transformative Lifestyle Changes: My Journey to Health and Well-being
I want to start this post by emphasising that I am not a nutritionist or a qualified expert in any way. I'm simply sharing my personal journey and the changes I've made to lead a healthier lifestyle. Throughout my adult life, I've struggled with weight fluctuations, especially after having children. Despite numerous attempts with various diets and programs, I found myself caught in a cycle of losing weight and then gaining it all back.
However, everything changed last spring when I turned 40. Feeling the need for a significant change after seeing photos from my milestone birthday, I decided to explore new avenues for achieving better health. Enter intermittent fasting – a concept that initially seemed daunting and unrealistic to me. But after witnessing my sister's success with it over the years, I decided to give it a try.
I began my journey by immersing myself in podcasts and audiobooks that delved into the science and theory behind fasting. While I won't delve into the specifics here (as I'm not particularly scientifically inclined), I found these resources incredibly informative and motivating. They helped me understand why fasting could be an effective tool for weight loss and overall well-being.
Starting with small steps, I gradually extended my fasting window each week. Initially, even waiting until 10 o'clock in the morning felt like a challenge. But with perseverance and dedication, I now find myself comfortably fasting until 2 or 3 o'clock in the afternoon. This has naturally led to eating fewer meals, as I typically stop eating around 7 or 7:30 in the evening.
One common misconception about fasting is that certain beverages, like coffee with milk or herbal tea, are permissible. However, to reap the full benefits of fasting, it's crucial to consume only water during fasting periods. Even seemingly innocuous additions like lemon water can trigger hunger cues in the brain, disrupting the fasting process.
As for my daily meals, I've shifted towards incorporating more whole, nutritious foods into my diet. Eggs, fish, chicken, and vegetables form the foundation of my meals, supplemented by nuts, berries, avocados, oats, brown rice, and lentils. I've learned to prioritise foods that keep me feeling satiated for longer periods, avoiding low-fat options laden with sweeteners and sugars.
What I appreciate most about fasting is its flexibility. Unlike rigid diet plans, fasting allows me to enjoy social occasions and indulge occasionally without derailing my progress. Weekends serve as a time to relax and savour life's pleasures, whether it's enjoying a Sunday roast or dining out with loved ones.
In addition to fasting, I've incorporated other healthy habits into my daily routine. I aim for over 10,000 steps each day, gradually increasing to 15,000 steps. Walking not only benefits my physical health but also provides much-needed mental clarity and relaxation. I've also embraced low-repetition weight training, which has noticeably improved my muscle tone and overall strength.
Tracking my progress has been instrumental in maintaining motivation and accountability. My Apple Watch helps me monitor my step count and exercise activity, while digital scales provide a visual representation of my weight fluctuations over time. This year, I've also delved into the principles of the Human Being Diet and Tim Spector's research on gut health, seeking to optimise my dietary choices for long-term well-being.
Overall, the past year has been transformative, both physically and mentally. I feel lighter, stronger, and more energised than ever before. While intermittent fasting has become a permanent fixture in my lifestyle, I continue to explore new ways to nourish my body and mind.
I hope my journey inspires you to prioritise your health and make positive changes in your life. Remember, small steps can lead to significant transformations over time. Be kind to yourself, stay consistent, and celebrate every milestone along the way.
For more insights into my journey and lifestyle, be sure to check out my vlogs. Together, let's embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier life. Watch my vlog to find out more.
Thank you for joining me on this adventure!