Small changes with big impact....

Did you try any of the snack suggestions from Real Simple this week? I did. One of my new favorites is actually an old favorite, yogurt (specifically yoplus+) with fruit and a touch of granola. I also ate hummus with raw veggies as an afternoon treat. Both are easy, tasty and healthy.

There are two changes that I am excited about this week. I am reading labels again. I am starting to figure out all the ways that I get sugar in my typical diet. This week I discovered that my jams and jellies are another big source. So when I went shopping this week I read the labels of the jams claiming reduced sugar, no sugar or simply fruit to gain a better understand of what that meant. The standard jams and jellies have about 12 grams of sugar whereas the reduced and simply fruit versions have between 5-8 grams. There are jams and jellies without sugar too but they contain a sugar substitute. I like the idea of natural products and "real or whole food" so I bought a jam with real sugar but less of it (only 5 grams). And guess what? It's good!

Another change that I am excited about this week is that I chose a plum for a snack over a sweet treat while I was out this weekend. Like most people I associate a special occasion with having tasty (for me sugary) treats The issue is that my definition of "special occasion" has expanded to include pretty normal activities. You guessed it....the treat might not change but if the frequency of the treat increases so do you. I was actually proud of my decision because I took control over a behavior that doesn't serve me well.

A friend and colleague who started her own company reminded me recently that big successes are the sum of small steps. The more small steps you take the closer you will get to your goal. If you've got a big goal (lots of weight to lose) break it down. Focus on just taking the next step. You'll get the results.