Love 2 Exercise, Hate 2 Diet-HELP!

[Fitswimmer]

I have no problem exercising. I go to the gym every morning before work and usually on Saturdays. Love to swim and I'm ready to move from walking to the Couch to 5k running plan starting tomorrow.

However--I can't seem to change my eating habits with any kind of consistency. I HATE the taste of raw vegetables-too bitter. I've added a half grapefruit and Blueberries to my cooked oats for breakfast and I have an apple at lunch. The only veggies I get are either in vegetable soup or as a side with dinner. I tried the bird's eye stir fry veggies with some chicken last night and that was ok, but if I have my choice I'm still going to avoid them.

I'd like to lose about 15-20 lbs and since I'm over 40, I know increasing my exercise intensity alone is not going to do the trick. So, I came to the experts for help! Any advice??

 

[chamonix]

Just eat whatever you normally eat, but eat less of it. Measure out appropriate small portions. Yes, it will be better if you can add more veggies and whole grains, but if you can't you can't--do what you can do.

I have to say I agree with you--I NEVER EVER eat frozen veggies, they are just nasty! You will find that the fresher the veggies, the better they are, less bitter, etc. I know it's not exactly farmers market time right now, but try shopping for veggies there when you can. Broccoli that was just picked yesterday is almost sweet compared to the 2 week old stuff in the regular grocery store. You know how when you go to a really nice restaurant the food is always so amazingly good? Part of the reason is that the food they are cooking is from the freshest in season fruits and veggies. It really does make a huge difference!

It sounds like you are focused on adding the healthier things into your diet, which is best, of course, but since you aren't having success with that, maybe you could try subtracting things instead. Smaller portions, no fried foods, cut back on the starchy carbs like rice, bread, pasta and potatoes. Those are the things I measure measure measure! I don't use a spoon to serve rice, I use a 1/2 cup measuring scoop. (one serving) I find the starchy carbs are very addicting though, so I try to just stay away from them as much as possible. I choose whole grains as much as I can as well.

Good luck!

 

[disneychrista]

Make small changes. Switch from white bread to 100% whole grain. Switch from whole fat dressing to reduced fat ones (fat free italian has 1/2 the calories of the regular version). Mix in the veggies to whatever you are making. If you are having spagetti, mix veggies in the sauce. If you like veggie soup make it and eat it. DO NOT make HUGE changes that you know you can not live with for the rest of your life. Make small ones that you can live with. DO NOT deprive yourself of your favorite things. Modify them whenever possible. Love Pizza? Figure out ways to make that pizza healthier. Get it with light cheese or replace one high fat meat item with a veggie that you like.

Do you do any resistance/weight training ? If not add some. This will add lean muscle which of course will burn more calories.