It's the day before I start my personal mission to cut sweets from my diet, at least during the month of February, which is of course, Black History Month. Although I feel strongly about my commitment to honor those who struggled and died for my freedom, I am cautious about moving forward. The good thing is that I have a plan of action. I know staying hydrated is very important for me. Many times when I am eating sweets I am actually thirsty. Instead of water, I find myself drinking punch or my favorite, zero calorie, Powerade or fruit flavored sparkling water. The problem with both of these options is that they're somewhat of a set up. While I am satisfied partially from liquid, the artificial sweetener leaves me wanting more. Meaning, I am still conditioned to have something sweet tasting when I am really, most likely, dehydrated. So, later in the day and night, I'm still not drinking enough water to keep me hydrated.
The other real problem is the sweets and junk food from brownies to baked corn and potato chips, candies like Twizzler, Snickers, M&Ms, and Laffy Taffy. I use to pretend eating the low sodium, baked, or multigrain chips somehow made a real difference. It was not likely if I was eating the whole bag, by myself! Another favorite is the no trans fat candy.
I've been a "victim" of the smart marketing ploys so many of us are persuaded by time and time again. You have to give it to them. Even when we know it is crap, they package it up, put on some bells and whistles, tell you how cool, fantastic, and hip you could be, and lo and behold, you are caught up. You are not delusional. You and I know the truth. However, habits are hard to break.
I watched my mother die from diabetes nearly six years ago, on Christmas Eve. She could not break her "habit" of eating junk food. She really was a victim. She is also like millions of Black and Latino/as (disproportionately more than White Americans) across this country slowing dying from a diet that kills us softly. The time, money, emotions, and all else lost behind our health is staggering. I do not want to continue this legacy for my children and loved ones. It's time to make a difference.
So, I have my water, calculated the number of cups I need for the day, track them on my smart phone, talk to friends and family announcing my journey, and go forth cautiously optimistic about what I will discover. I hope you may find this journey a meaningful one for you. Tomorrow is the first day.
Blessings and Be well.
