It has been said that changing your diet is harder than changing your religion.  Abby knows this.  She started me out with basic steps and added additional steps as I was able to move forward.  Here are the steps we went through.

1. Keep a food journal just writing down what is eaten
2. Add calorie counting to assess how much is eaten daily
3. Identify the quantity of calories needed per day according to individual metabolism, goals, and exercise plan
4. Divide these calories between the number of meals eaten a day to maintain a balanced level of energy throughout the entire day
5. Identify what food groups (starchy carbs, fruits, veggies, protein, fats) are being eaten at each meal
6. Identify how many calories 1 serving of each food groups equals.
7. Identify the quantity of servings of each food group that should be eaten on a daily basis according to individual metabolism, goals, and exercise plan
8. Divide these food groups between the number of meals eaten a day to maintain a balanced level of energy and nutrition throughout the day (if energy and nutrition are balanced, blood sugar will be balanced and we don’t have those inappropriate cravings that leave us feeling unable to reach our goals)
9. Design a weekly or daily menu or choose what to eat at each meal by following this food group servings/calorie structure

Results

• Cravings decreased
• Inches and body fat decreased
• Skin problems decreased
• Self-control increased
• Peace of mind increased
• Energy levels balanced
• Ability to workout harder w/out getting headaches increased
• Emotional stability increased

This can be done on your own but I believe it is important to have a qualified individual to be accountable to on a regular basis.

I started out with food allergies to wheat and milk.  Abby and I experimented with adding these back into my diet a little at a time.  It was good to be able to talk with her about the side effects that occurred with the different changes we made.  We sorted things out together.  She brought to the table her educational background in nutrition and experience with other clients.  I brought to the table my own experience with my body and also what education I have on nutrition.  Together we worked to design a program that worked for me and together we worked out the conflicts that came up.  I believe this is the recipe for success: Both the client and the nutritionist need to work together to reach a common goal.  That’s what you’ll get working with Abby.  Wish the best for you!

Gretchen Langford