Kicking the Grain Habit

Grains are imbedded in our society, but that doesn’t mean that you have to reach for the apple pie or French fries. Sure you may be a self-proclaimed carboholic and there are psychological factors involved in sugar and carb cravings. Quitting grains is entirely possible and vital to your current and future health. Here are some tactics for a grainless existence.
1. Stock up on grainless goodies
Go to the grocery and load your frig up on tasty, mouth-watering foods. Pick anything from fresh fruits to vegetables to slices of delicious lean meats. The options are plentiful. Feeling stuck? Get a cookbook; there are endless options for grain-free good-tasting cooking.
2. Anticipate
There will be cravings and “low carb flu” (fatigue or mental haziness). Besides that, think ahead to long-term because of our food-dominate culture. Be prepared for family holidays or cookouts. Once you’ve converted, though, you won’t be complaining.
3. Psychological preparation
Make sure that you are at a point in your life that you can take potential carb withdrawal. If you are not getting enough sleep, not exercising, or live in a state of stress, this may not be the time to start. Taking on the Body Change diet, that provides more of an even energy level may help with these, but ultimately beginning the challenge may be easier if you were sleeping more and focused.
4. Be prepared
Plan ahead and anticipate. Go ahead and write down your Body Change program for the whole day. Keep your grainless options (such as almonds or bars) to the front of cabinets. Make shopping list ahead of time and plan ahead for special occasions, like birthday parties and come prepared with something to snack on. If you live with someone who eats grain, divide up frig and cabinet space.
5. Motivation is key
Keep a journal or have a motivational board. They can serve as reminders of why you’re doing this and the journey you’ve made, so that it makes it easier to turn down that piece of cheesecake you’re craving.
6. Progress or quit cold turkey
Follow your own personal preference. Ween yourself off grains a little at a time, or just quit all at once, whichever you prefer, the results are the same.
7. Stay positive
Look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are worthy and that you can do this.
8. Find support
Find others who have done it. Learn from them and take from their experience. Be apart of the community as well. Having support can provide encouragement on a seemingly bad day.
9. Indulge yourself
What better time to pamper yourself. Get a massage; plan a day or half-day trip. Anything that you’ve wanted to do, then do it!
10. Be tolerant
If you falter, don’t let it get you down, just pick up where you left off. Accept it and move on.