Breaking Free from Unhealthy Habits
For a long time, I convinced myself that eating healthy was a luxury I couldn’t afford. I’d splurge on Saturday night takeout and grab expensive lunches, all while telling myself it wasn’t my fault that I was stuck in a cycle of unhealthy eating. After all, who could afford to live on fancy smoothies and kale?
A Diet of Beige
Growing up, my diet consisted of a bland, beige color palette – and things only got worse when I went to university and was in charge of my own food budget. I made half-hearted attempts to improve my diet, but was quickly discouraged by the short shelf life of avocados and my own limited cooking skills. So, I settled for a diet of baked pasta, frozen fries, and daily chocolate bars.
A Turning Point
Six months ago, I hit rock bottom. I was constantly lethargic, spotty, and unfit. I was miserable, and I knew I had to make a change. I decided to cut out store-bought, pre-packaged meals and start cooking for myself. I took inspiration from bloggers who focused on health, not weight, and who didn’t count calories, but instead emphasized goodness.
A New Regimen
I started with Deliciously Ella’s budget meal plan, which included three meals a day, snacks, and affordable storecupboard staples. To my surprise, I survived the first two weeks, and even started to feel more awake and motivated. My skin looked healthier, and I had more energy.
Investing in My Health
As I continued to cook and experiment with new ingredients, I started to invest in healthier options. I bought jars of nut butter, berries for smoothies, and even medjool dates for sweet potato brownies. It wasn’t cheap, but I knew it was worth it. I became the kind of person I used to ridicule, but I didn’t care – because I felt better.
Finding Balance
I’m not saying that I’ve abandoned all “bad” foods or become a health fanatic. I still enjoy a greasy pizza or a rich macaroni cheese every now and then. But now, I savor each bite and appreciate the joy that food can bring. I’ve also learned that not all healthy foods are expensive – bananas are 10p, and a can of beans can make a whole meal for under £1.
A Lesson Learned
I’m lucky to be able to afford the kind of food that makes me happy, and I know that not everyone has the same luxury. But for me, investing in my health has been worth every penny. It’s taken me 26 years to figure out that my health is worth more than any price tag.
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