This is a phrase that really causes me to bite my tongue in conversation with people about food. I am especially careful these days because I have moved to a new area and want to take my time scaring everyone away from inviting us over for friendly dinners. Ha ha. But really, “moderation in all things” will give you just that, moderation in all things. I see people who believe this statement who have arthritis in their hands and/or have to take several daily medications to maintain blood pressure or other things. That is true moderation in all things, they have moderate disease as well as the ability to eat what they want and justify it with that phrase. It’s truly a handicap that for some reason as a society we have just accepted as a norm. I was there too, I always thought those that refrained from food were just a little but wacky, but now I see it very differently. I feel more accountable for the information I have and the ability that is gives me to take proper care of myself and my family.
I have to admit I have fallen further off the track than I normally allow. Since moving to an entirely new area and spending time with new friends, I have been trying to seem less uptight and more laid back about the foods my kids eat. Can I tell you what I have noticed in the last month? Grumpy, tired, and sick kids. Not sleeping well and not getting along like they normally do. Two kids with stuffy sinuses and coughing a lot. At first when I noticed this I thought I was just being too crazy and wanted to allow my kids to feel “normal” at their new school with packing fun treats and surprises in their lunch boxes. It has back fired on me big time. Totally not worth the moderation in all things from this moms perspective. Reality check hit hard this past weekend and we are getting back on track. GREENS AT EVERY MEAL! I let the kiddos take turns piecing their faves, but there is no exception! Be it lettuce, kale, broccoli, asparagus, brussel sprouts, snap peas, green beans, cucumbers, green peppers, cilantro, parsley, etc. They choose and we add it in.
It is actually very simple:
Breakfast: Green Smoothies
Lunch: Salads or veggie sandwiches with lettuces
Dinner: Sides with dinner or make the green the main event of your family meal
We have so many great recipes on our site to help you (and Me) get on track. It is especially important during this holiday season when we know santa is watching and we want to be on our best behavior. Its hard to be happy when our body is feeling grumpy!
Here is a great article from Jeff Novick about moderation in all things!
Source: WFM 1-10