Wednesday, February 06, 2008

My Relationship with Food

Food. Who doesn't love it? My relationship with food has been interesting over the course of my life. When I was younger and in high school, I had a very unhealthy relationship with food. I was addicted to fast food and candy, and would often eat those "bad for me" items in my car, throwing away the evidence before I got back to my parent's house. I was 50-60 pounds overweight and miserable.

Then at the age of 21, I decided to join my parents in their giving up something for Lent and ate only soup and salad for 40 days. I lost about 20 pounds, felt amazing, and continued eating healthier once Lent was over.

Since then, I try to give up something for Lent every year, usually something food-wise. There is something so challenging about denying yourself something, and it builds a great level of discipline. I did my detox last year, which was quite challenging. Yet, I felt more disciplined, not only in eating healthier, but in other areas of my life.

This year, I wanted to do something big. I haven't really done anything major for the past few years, so I wanted to challenge myself at a different level. I already eat a pretty streamlined and healthy diet, so it took some brainstorming to come up with what I was doing this year. But I think I finally have it. I decided that I would eat a mostly raw diet, except I will be including some cooked veggies. I also am giving up any beverages except water and tea.

Now don't worry, dear readers. I have a few things already made so I will have plenty of posting material, but I also plan on doing some fun things, such as ceviche. Hopefully these next 40 days will be over before I know it. Wish me luck!

And if you're giving up something for Lent, I'd love to hear about it in the comments.

9 comments:

NWJR said...

Every year I give up self-denial. I shall attempt again this year.

Dori said...

40 days of will-power! I haven't even been able to hold to a "diet, fast, etc." for one day :D Good luck!

Anonymous said...

I usually try to give up chocolate. I tried to give up sweet tea once, but it didn't work out too well as I was impossible to live with.....

Anonymous said...

Good luck! I wanted to let you know that I made your red velvet cake balls using white chocolate that had been dyed pink -- a big hit! I also made your oreo truffles, which are so so much better on day 2 and 3! Thanks and I'll be giving up stealing your recipes, I guess. :)

Anonymous said...

I decided to give up bread and wine this year. Sort of a "reverse communion" thing--"as oft as ye don't eat this bread and don't drink this wine, remember Me". It's always a challenge to think of giving up something that helps you to worship Jesus rather than something that will primarily help you to lose weight (smile). Anyway, I'm with you--forty days will be over soon. Good luck with your raw diet. Sounds great!

Anonymous said...

Oooh so unique!

Fiber said...

Cornelius - self denial is for suckers anyway....

Meeso - actually only the first few days are hard. It gets much easier after that.

Mimi - chocolate? Now that's a tough one.

Jody - That's a unique idea. I was reading your comment to a coworker and she immediately said "Oh, kind of like a reverse communion thing." Good luck on your 40 days though!! Let me know how it works out for you.

Hillary - we'll see how it works out. The first few days have been tough but it's getting easier.

Monika K said...

I'm not going to lie - your Cilantro JalapeƱo Hummus and Pickled Garlic recipes sound awesome! I will definitely make them soon and link back to your page for some well-deserved props. Cheers!

Anonymous said...

So this means we can go for sushi?

Good luck!!