Hi readers, I hope you all have enjoyed the last couple of days. Last time I said we would discuss a little bit about my personal struggle with creating a healthy lifestyle and some strategies you might find helpful if you’re someone seeking a similar goal.

My battle started when I was eleven years old. I began to pick up weight and by twelve I was bigger than most kids my age. I was maybe 25 to 30 pounds overweight. I was extremely self conscious and so unhappy. As I got older, I got bigger. By eighteen I was weighing 220 pounds and a size 18 in woman’s clothing. It wasn’t until I was twenty three years old when I decided to make a change. I knew something had to change because I didn’t want to live the rest of my life unhappy.

I started eating fresh fruits and vegetables, less sugar and fat. Instantly I had more energy and I used this energy to workout. I joined a nearby YMCA and I worked out at least four times a week. Surprisingly, I discovered that I had a passion for jogging, which is now my favorite type of exercise.

By no means am I the healthiest person. I still eat those unhealthy foods like chips and cookies but I have learned portion control and how to integrate healthy foods into my diet. Sixty pounds lighter, I am far from perfect but absolutely much happier. My body feels better and I have a brighter outlook on life.

TIPS: If you’re someone like me that doesn’t like exercising or eating healthy, I recommend you find ways to include the things you personally love into the process.

Listen to Music: try using an iPod or internet radio. Some gyms have televisions and radios built directly into the machines, so you can watch TV and listen to music while enjoying a workout. Try taking a book or magazine. If your budget is tight and there’s no room for an extra gym expense, walk outside or buy workout DVDs. Bottom line please get active. According to BBC Health adults should do a minimum of 30 minutes moderate-intensity physical activity, five days a week.

Eat your favorite Fruits and Veggies: Go to the grocery store; pick out 2 or 3 of your favorite fruits and veggies. Make these foods work for you. For example, I love cucumbers. I slice them into very thin round pieces, sprinkle a little black pepper and cover them with a few table spoons of apple cider vinegar. This is a delicious snack and one serving of vegetables. You may also try using little peanut butter on an apple or celery.

Please leave comments. I would like to know, what are your favorite fruits and vegetables?