DIABETES and HEALTHY LIVING

The Party is Over.

Hooray!! A new year; a new day; a fresh start.  No matter what happened (or didn’t happen) in 2011.  It is time for our new, improved weight loss strategy.  If you achieved all of your 2011 targets pat yourself on the back and set new ones for 2012.  For those of you who are like me and  have some unmet goals, it is time to refine and refresh.  Let’s begin with evaluate. Did I give this target priority.  Was it something I really wanted to do?  Was I persistent and consistent in its implementation?

Next analyze answers.  For each no answer—why or why not.  Next  reframe.  Restate target in a manner that results in high priority; high interest; immediate rewards. 

Here is an example of the above using one of my unmet targets.  My goal was to lose 20 pounds.  This was a priority with me and something I really wanted to do. BUT, it was very hard work and I was inconsistent and did not stay focused.  I still need to lose those 20 pounds.  What can I do differently this time to help myself attain that goal? hmm 

I can focus on small weight loss increments.  Lose 5 pounds and maintain for 30 days, then try to  lose 5 more and so on until I have achieved my goal of 20 pounds weight loss.  I also must remove the hard work component. I need to make a life style change that I can implement easily and consistently.  Therefore, I am going to do the following two things in January 2012.  Eat a healthy breakfast daily.  Reduce my portion sizes. 

Here is a fun and tasty recipe you may enjoy.

CHICKEN SKEWERS

1 1/2 lb.boneless, skinless chicken breast

1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar

1/3 c. white or red wine

1/2 c. chutney

1/4 c. olive oil

3 bell peppers (green, yellow and red, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch squares

Cut the chicken into 3/4 inch cubes.  Put into a large mixing bowl.  Add the vinegar, wine, chutney, and olive oil and stir to combine.  Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Drain the chicken and put on 6 inch long skewers , alternating chicken and bell peppers.  Broil or grill over hot coals for 8 to 10 minutes.  Serve hot.  Yield.  40 skewers.

Let me know what your plans are to develop a healthier lifestyle in 2012.

Theresa Newell