I came across this post earlier today and thought it was really interesting. Basically, the takeaway is that, while exercise is splendid, it's really diet that makes the biggest impact to your weight loss goals. Admittedly, I thought the article was a bit depressing, as I personally have been having a really tough time changing my eating habits. Curiously, despite my general hatred of gyms, I've been going regularly without complaint. When it comes to putting down that Reese's peanut butter cup, though, I find it difficult to exert any of the same willpower and self-discipline. It's not that I am not eating healthy at all--I am drinking a homemade berries-and-beets smoothie as I type--but the unhealthy foods remain.
Now, I should give myself some credit. I went from drinking 4-5 cups of soda a day to one, or even none. I've upped my water intake considerably to compensate. Instead of trying to skip breakfast and ending up with a Starbucks coffee cake in my hand anyway, I've taken to making instant oatmeal at work every morning. I've been eating homemade meals more often. I've been trying to expand my vegetable horizons (see above, re: beets). And I've even stopped eating ice cream several times a week.
In other words, I've taken steps. And I need to remind myself that any steps forward, however small, are good steps to take, and I'm still farther along than I was yesterday. I think my goal this weekend will be to figure out some healthy snacks that I can bring to work to munch on when I get chocolate cravings. My office provides some fresh fruit, which is great, but I'm thinking something with protein would be a good option, too. Maybe I'll even treat myself to some cheese.