Queen of convenience

When it comes to food, I'm the queen of convenience eating. If it's pre-packaged and I can eat it on the go, it's a staple. If I'm out and about and near a Tim Hortons, a Timmie's pitstop is on my 'to-do' list.

I've often wished there were healthier convenient options. A vegan drive-through with nourishing smoothies...a vegan bean burrito, etc. But this is sort of like searching for a unicorn.

And this search has only left me obese, inactive, and with a poor life-work balance. In my strive to push myself professionally, my self-care is the first thing I gave up.

I don't want to be the person I see in the mirror, with the habits I am reflecting on in this post. So, for today, I took a step towards eating clean. And I was hungry. I searched the cupboard for chocolate bars, and initially cursed my beans for hiding them, but then thanked him and reviewed the problem.

In my meal plan for the day, I undershot my protein intake. I'm not about to sit at the table and eat three servings of tofu. But, I have planned out my meals for tomorrow and made sure they are all there. I'm not giving up so easily!

Other thoughts from today: I am already sick of vegetables. I'm sick of chewing. I will be throwing a serving in to my smoothie tomorrow. And as much as I want to like hummus, particularly as a vegetarian who struggles to get in some of the healthier food, I just can't do it. Blech. And yes, I've tried other kinds.

Tomorrow is day 2!

Casey-Kicks

09/07/2015 9:01PM

Hi Tijya, I can relate to being busy and not always making the best choices. Like you, I'm trying to move toward cleaner eating and I love that you're going for fresh foods, but I worry that if you hate what you're eating you won't be able to sustain the change. I wonder if there are any options near you to help you make this important transition? One thing I've liked when busy is to hit the food bar at a nearby Whole Foods where they have vegetarian and vegan options. If you are trying to ease into things and don't mind some prepared foods, Amy's (in the frozen section of most grocery stores) has organic vegetarian frozen foods like breakfast burritos, etc. that I really like. I'm thinking that changing things up might help the new style of eating taste and feel better for you. I'm rooting for your success!

tijya

Thanks Kimberly! While I don't have a Whole Foods, I do have a grocery store that carries Amy's stuff. I love these products and have some in my freezer when I do need convenience. While it is processed, it's also organic and vegan. Woot all around! I will be ditching the hummus and adding in more almonds. I will also be 'sneaking' in veggies whenever I can. Protein is still a struggle though. I like tofu and beans so it's likely a matter of getting more creative. And somehow finding a way to incorporate protein into my snacks.

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