Myth: Meat is the Only Source of Protein

Many people believe meat is the only way to get protein. While meat farmers would like you to believe this, it's actually just another myth. While meat is high in protein, there are other sources as well.

Myth: Eating Healthy is Expensive

I'm sure you've heard this one. Many people believe in the myth that healthy food is more expensive. Eating crap is what's really more expensive--you pay with your health (see previous posts on that sandwhich with sneaker juice, white bread and cancer meat).

I purchased all of this for about 20 bucks. For $30 I also got three desserts and two sandwiches from the same store. The processed stuff definitely won't last past today.  This on the hand, will last for a whole week or more.

According to a news report healthy eating is cheaper than you may think:

An Agriculture Department study released Wednesday found that most fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods cost less than foods high in fat, sugar and salt.But comparing the cost of foods by weight or portion size shows that grains, vegetables, fruit and dairy foods are less expensive than most meats or foods high in saturated fat, added sugars or salt.
That means bananas, carrots, lettuce and pinto beans are all less expensive per portion than French fries, soft drinks, ice cream or ground beef.
"Using price per calorie doesn't tell you how much food you're going to get or how full you are going to feel," said Andrea Carlson, scientist at the USDA's Economic Research Service and an author of the study.
For example, eating a chocolate glazed donut with 240 calories might not satiate you but a banana with 105 calories just might.

So not only does clean eating save you calories, it also saves you money. Sounds like a win-win to me. 

Have you tried clean eating on a budget? Let me know below! 

Myth: What You Don't Know Won't Hurt You

I am not one of those people that goes around telling all my family and friends the truth about everything they eat and drink. Most people don't want to hear it and quite frankly, I'm not here to shove anything down someone's throat (no pun intended). I do however, believe in sharing with those who want to know. I want everyone to know exactly what they're putting in their bodies. Whatever decision they make after that is totally on them. I do believe there's power in knowing. Perhaps that's the very reason many people don't want to know the truth. It makes them responsible for the actions that follow. 


      


     The American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund released a study and found a link between processed meats and cancer.In fact, the World Cancer Research Fund says that "processed meats are too dangerous for human consumption."

The Will Power Myth

I watched an episode of Dr. Phil today and he said something that really resonated with me.  He said that will power is when you're trying to squeeze into a dress for your sister's wedding. Will power is when you're taking diuretics and starving yourself for the short term goal. Losing weight is and keeping it off is about making a lifestyle change. Well Phil, I couldn't agree with you more.
    The notion that all it takes is will power irritates me. In fact, it's insulting. It's like saying all you need to do this is exactly what you lack. Where is this will power supposed to come from? If one doesn't have it to begin with then how can we assume they're just not exercising it. No, the real issue is that they're not exercising. Life is about choices. Weight loss is no different.
   Phil (yes, I can drop the Dr. cause I knows him like that) also discussed the four stages of motivation, which he calls:

                                    "4 Stages of Readiness"

Stage 1: Compelled by Authority
Stage 2: Comply to Escape Criticism
Stage 3: intellectually Aware of Need to Change
Stage 4: Mentally & Emotionally Self-Motivated for Change

    Its funny because for months a friend and I have been saying we're "in transition" although we don't always define what that means or applies to. Hearing that there really are stages of motivation was such validation. So it's not only acceptable to conclude that fitness/weight loss is a journey, it's actually factual. Knowing there are stages means it's easier to understand the good, bad and ugly that come with the territory. There are ups and downs to living your best life. The question is, are you ready for the ride?

What about you? Which stage are you in? Do you believe will power is a myth?