You can eat whatever you want this holiday season without worrying about bursting your pants at the seams. Holiday gatherings often revolve around family, friends, and, of course, food. I look forward to these buffet-style feasts every year because I absolutely love comfort food—it always puts me in a happy place.
In the past, however, I would stress about how indulging in these meals might permanently affect my waistline. Thankfully, I’ve learned that one day of enjoying everything in sight has never caused long-term changes in how my clothes fit.
From Addiction to Transformation
My Journey Through Addiction
Just three years ago, I was battling addiction while eating hoards of cheap, processed, and sugary foods. Daily exercise and proper nutrition were the last things on my mind. I didn’t care about the contents of what I ate, nor did I consider the damage these toxic ingredients were doing to my body. My poor food choices were evident in my “Pillsbury Doughboy” physique.
At my lowest point, my opioid addiction had wreaked such havoc on my stomach that I could only eat soft foods—it was impossible to digest anything else.
The Turning Point
Breaking free from long-term addiction was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it also made daily exercise and eating healthy seem like a piece of cake (pun intended). I committed to changing every aspect of my life and implemented simple routines to transform my body and mind.
The result? My transformation was 80% diet and 20% exercise. Changing my eating habits was the foundation of my success, and it played a massive role in my recovery.
What Clean Eating Did for Me
My new diet didn’t just improve my appearance—it changed my life. Here’s what I gained:
- Clearer Mind: Reduced brain fog, depression, and anxiety.
- Increased Energy: I could finally keep up with my active son.
- Improved Motivation: I felt inspired to pursue my goals and enjoy life again.
- Better Sleep: Restful nights made a huge difference in my recovery.
- Enhanced Physical Health: My metabolism skyrocketed, and my body transformed inside and out.
- Stronger Relationships: Every aspect of my life improved—including my sex life!
What Foods Held Me Back
Processed and sugary foods wreaked havoc on my body and mind. These were my biggest culprits:
- Processed Foods: Fast food, frozen meals, boxed snacks, and fried foods.
- Sugar: Found in soda, fruit juices, candy, flavored coffee, and more.
- Desserts: Cookies, cakes, pies, ice cream, and donuts.
- Alcohol: A poison that kills over 50,000 people annually.
The Consequences of Poor Eating
Sugar spikes blood sugar levels and triggers a cascade of negative effects. For me, this included:
- Brain fog, depression, and anxiety.
- Weight gain and low energy.
- Acne, restlessness, and low libido.
How I Changed My Diet
I eliminated unhealthy foods and focused on simple, nutrient-dense meals. Here’s what worked for me:
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with veggies, 24 oz of water, and sometimes oatmeal with cinnamon and raisins.
- Lunch: Grilled chicken, a hamburger patty, or lean protein with potatoes, rice, and a green vegetable like broccoli or asparagus.
- Dinner: Grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, or fish with steamed vegetables and avocado.
- Snacks: Protein shakes or hard-boiled eggs.
- Post-Workout: A protein shake with vitamin powder, superfoods, and BCAA supplements.
- Before Bed: Hard-boiled eggs if I was hungry.
Key Philosophy
I eat until I’m full, focusing on natural, nutrient-dense foods. Counting calories isn’t my focus—I prioritize eating healthily and avoiding constant hunger, which sets me up for long-term success. Indulge Without Guilt
By maintaining a healthy diet throughout the year, you can confidently indulge at holiday gatherings. Enjoy the comfort foods you love without fear of long-term consequences. Remember, it’s about balance and consistency.
Sober Coaching
Sober Coaching is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their journey to recovery through personalized coaching and proven strategies. Our experienced coaches provide guidance, accountability, and support tailored to your unique needs, empowering you to achieve lasting sobriety and a fulfilling life.
We offer one-on-one coaching, recovery planning, and resources designed to help you stay focused and committed to your goals. Whether you’re starting your journey or seeking ongoing support, Sober Coaching is here for you every step of the way.
Discover how Sober Coaching can support your recovery. Contact us today to get started.
Tags: Addiction, Diet, Food, Healthy, Holiday, Nutrition, Sugar