My Body, My Rules: How Simple Rules Helped Me Take Control

Have you ever felt judged for what you eat?

"My Body, My Rules" isn't just a fun saying. It means I get to choose what I eat without others telling me what to do.

Here's how I took back control of my health.

Feeling Like a Failure

Nine months ago, I was not doing well.

I weighed 217 pounds. I had trouble breathing. I couldn't keep up with my grandsons when playing.

I felt bad because I tried many diets, but nothing worked.

Finding Keto

I started a keto diet, which I believed could help me.

It wasn't just about losing weight.

For me, it was also about getting healthier without needing surgery or medicine.

Making Rules That Work

Keto takes hard work, but what really helped wasn't just the diet. It was following the rules I made for myself:

• Write down everything I eat

• Stay away from foods with lots of carbs

• Eat fish or seafood at least four times a week

• Keep track of following my rules, not just my weight

These rules help quiet the thoughts about food in my head. This lets me focus on what's important: my family and my goals.

Dealing with Hard Times

Eating keto is easy at home, but going out can be hard.

Friends and family offer pizza and candy. They ask why I'm not eating certain foods.

It's tempting to give in, but I remember that one slip up can undo months of hard work.

Standing Up for My Choices

When people push food on me, I remember "My Body, My Rules."

I'm not being rude. I'm just politely standing firm about what I want to eat.

I know they mean well, but only I know what's best for my body.

My tips for staying in control:

• Say "No thank you, I'm all set"

• Ask a question to change the subject

• Help clear away food when you can

A friend recently offered me birthday cake. When I said no, she said, "But you're on vacation!"

She wasn't trying to make things hard for me. She just doesn't understand my diet.

I told her, "I feel great losing weight, and I would not feel great if I ate cake."

Simple as that!

Make Rules That Work for You

Create rules that help you reach your goals and make choices easier.

When others question your rules, remember: My Body, My Rules.

They can have their own rules for their bodies. They will get the results of their choices.

Stay true to the rules that you set to make you healthier.

Change Rules When Needed

Your rules can change. As you learn more, adjust them.

For example, I cut back to two meals a day when I stopped losing weight.

I began eating more fish after learning it's good for brain health.

The key is to change on purpose, not on a whim.

Don't break your rules just for someone's birthday party.

Come Join Us!

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Remember, it's your body, your rules. Start living by them!