“Ruby”, a reality show airing on the “Style Network” Sunday nights at 8/7c, chronicles the life of a woman battling her way back to a healthy weight after having been super morbidly obese most of her life.  When I had cable, I watched her with excitement and just a little bit of longing.  I used to think, “I wish I had the opportunity to have a team of people working with me to help me lose weight the long, hard way.  I wish I had cameras following me around and millions of viewers cheering me on.”  I understand that it doesn’t work that way for everyone.  I’m not waiting for a camera crew to knock on my door and follow me around as I explore new horizons and adventures.  It’s ok, though.  It really is. In God’s time, I’ve come to enjoy the path my life is taking and I’m SO EXCITED about my future.

Soooo….I had an idea.  I was thinking about ways that people with struggles like mine could support each other.  I was inspired after watching Ruby when I saw that she had a meeting at her home that would allow women to come and share about anything they cared to talk about.  They also brought in a chef once to learn how to cook healthier meals.  They called this meeting, “Women’s Fat Night”.    Here’s a link where you can watch an exerpt of the show featuring
” Women’s Fat Night” on Hulu.

http://www.hulu.com/watch/83604/ruby-womens-fat-night

I remember loving the idea of doing this myself, but I never acted on it. I guess I kept in the back of my mind.  This was at least a year ago. Continue reading →

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_p10Ss8t1BI

Here’s the link I mentioned in the video.

http://www.staxsystem.com/davids_story.html

Take a minute to scan through this story.  I haven’t been paid to suggest this system.  I just understand the theory and I know it works.

In the way of recipies, the best ones will include complex carbohydrates (vegetables, grain, fiber, etc.) and lean protein. It’s good to avoid fried foods and any foods that call for preparation with excessive amounts of fats.  Butter, even in moderation, is ok. Watch your salt intake (especially African-American women; heart disease is ravaging our demographic).  The average adult needs 2300 mg per day, unless you have high blood pressure; then the amount is reduced to 1500 mg.  It’s in everything and it’s ok to have.  You just can’t go overboard.

Eat colorful vegetables and fruits (the more colors, the better).

Here are links to some really delicious, healthy recipes.  I picked ones that the average person is most likely to make.  You can always go a bit “fancier”. Continue reading →