Does healthy food really taste good?

We live in a time when processed and convenience foods dominate our diets to such an extent that many people have lost the ability to appreciate and enjoy “real” food—food that is fresh, whole, and minimally processed. This shift in eating habits has not only affected our taste buds but also our perceptions of what it means to eat well. Unfortunately, when someone makes the conscious choice to eat healthier, it’s often misunderstood as being on a restrictive “diet” rather than a choice to nourish the body with wholesome foods.

This misunderstanding sometimes leads to social pressures and even mockery,

as choosing real food over junk food is seen as unusual. Our society has become so used to consuming fast food, sugary snacks, and overly processed meals that these have become the norm. As a result, the idea of eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is sometimes met with resistance or seen as an unnecessary challenge.

For those who have made the commitment to prioritize healthy eating, the allure of junk food diminishes over time. The craving for highly processed, sugary, or fatty foods often fades, replaced by a genuine preference for foods that fuel the body and mind. This shift in mindset and taste can make it easier to bypass the temptations of junk food, not because of strict self-discipline, but because the desire for it simply isn’t there anymore.

It’s also important to recognize that eating well doesn’t mean denying yourself all indulgences. For example, if I find myself in Italy, a place known for its incredible cuisine, I wouldn’t hesitate to enjoy a slice of authentic pizza. However, outside of such special circumstances, I might choose to skip it, knowing that my usual diet serves my health and well-being better.

Learning to say no is a powerful skill that goes beyond food choices. It’s about making decisions that align with our values, priorities, and long-term goals, even when it means going against societal norms or facing criticism. Whether it’s passing on a slice of cake at a party or choosing to prepare a home-cooked meal instead of ordering takeout, these choices reflect a deeper understanding of what truly nourishes us. We need to embrace the idea that it’s okay to say no to things that don’t serve us, whether that’s junk food, unhealthy habits, or any other aspect of life that doesn’t align with our well-being.

Traveling to other countries and trying local food

Whenever I travel to a new country or place, I make it a priority to thoroughly research the local culture and cuisine. It never ceases to amaze me how some people travel to new and exciting destinations only to stick to familiar foods like burgers and pizza. For me, the joy of travel lies in immersing myself in the local experience, and a significant part of that is trying the national dishes, exploring local foods, and discovering unique produce that the region has to offer.

Before embarking on any trip, I spend time learning about the culinary traditions of the place I’m visiting. I delve into the history behind the dishes, the ingredients that are native to the area, and any unique food-related customs. This preparation not only enriches my travel experience but also allows me to fully appreciate the flavors and techniques that are characteristic of the local cuisine.

One practical tip I always follow is to make a list of at least seven different foods or dishes I want to try. This way, if something is out of season or unavailable, I have several other options to choose from. It’s a simple strategy, but it ensures that I don’t miss out on the authentic culinary experiences that make each destination unique.

In my view, travel is about expanding our horizons and embracing new experiences. How can we truly learn about and understand different cultures if we don’t take the opportunity to try something new? Whether it’s a street food delicacy, a traditional home-cooked meal, or an exotic fruit I’ve never heard of before, tasting local foods is an essential part of the journey. It’s through these experiences that we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of the world’s cultures.

The importance of exercise for physical and mental health

People often ask why I exercise so much, pointing out that I’m already “skinny” enough. But for me, exercise isn’t just about how I look; it’s a crucial part of who I am and how I feel. When I don’t get some form of exercise each day, it’s as if something vital is missing from my routine. It’s not just a habit but a necessity for my mental and emotional health. Exercise helps me manage anxiety, reduces stress, and gives me a sense of clarity and calm that nothing else can provide.

People tend to focus on the physical benefits,

like weight loss or muscle tone, but they overlook how transformative exercise can be for the mind. I’ve found that when I’m active, I’m more focused, more positive, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. The saying, “A body in motion stays in motion,” resonates deeply with me because I’ve experienced the other side of it. There was a time when I became really heavy, and the impact on my body was undeniable—my back ached, my knees were constantly sore, and I felt sluggish and uncomfortable in my own skin.

Exercise was my way out of that cycle, and it became much more than a tool for physical change. It’s my therapy, my stress relief, and my way of ensuring that I’m taking care of myself inside and out. When I move, I feel alive, connected, and in control. So when people tell me I’m already “skinny enough,” I want them to understand that for me, exercise is not about reaching a certain size or shape. It’s about maintaining a healthy mind and body, staying active to avoid the physical pain I once felt, and ensuring that I’m living my life to the fullest potential.

Staying away from vices

To be truly productive in life, it’s crucial to maintain a clear focus by avoiding all vices and distractions. These behaviors, whether it’s alcohol, gambling, overeating, vaping, smoking, or excessive shopping, often serve as temporary escapes from uncomfortable emotions or stress. While these actions may provide immediate relief, the satisfaction they offer is fleeting and can lead to a cycle of dependency that ultimately hinders personal growth and productivity.

Whenever I find myself tempted to reach for something to escape how I’m feeling, it’s a signal that I need to pause and reassess. This moment of self-reflection is essential because it allows me to confront the root of my discomfort rather than masking it with unhealthy habits. By staying mindful of my actions and choices, I can cultivate resilience and make decisions that align with my long-term goals.

"Strength lies in choosing long-term growth over short-term comfort. True productivity is born from mindful choices, not momentary escapes."
Kelly

The allure of instant gratification is powerful, but it’s important to remember that the relief it provides is temporary and often comes at a cost. In contrast, by facing my emotions head-on and finding healthier ways to cope, I can build a more fulfilling and productive life. True productivity is not just about accomplishing tasks but also about fostering a lifestyle that supports continuous growth, well-being, and the ability to navigate challenges without relying on detrimental habits.

Food and drink anxiety at restaurants

Sometimes we get anxious when making healthy food or drink choices when eating out.  Many times I’ve been on vacation and asked for no alcohol in my beverage- only to be mocked by the bartender.  At the time it made me uncomfortable.  I’ve since gained more confidence and know it’s perfectly ok to decline or say no to something.  It does not matter what others think or say.

Living a healthy lifestyle without caring about others’ opinions

No matter what you do in life, people will always have something to say.  When you start making better choices in life and bettering yourself, some of your friends may make comments.  This is because you are doing the work in making yourself better.  This may put the mirror on others and make them more aware of things they need to work on however choose not to do so.


It is an inevitable truth that regardless of our actions and decisions, there will always be individuals expressing their opinions. When we embark on a journey of self-improvement and start making wiser choices, it is not uncommon for our acquaintances to voice their thoughts. This occurs because our personal growth serves as a reflection for others, highlighting areas they might also need to address, but consciously choose not to pursue.

Drinking too much alcohol contributes to excess weight gain

Looking back at photos from the time when I was drinking, the difference in my appearance is striking. My face was bloated, and my body carried much more weight. The puffiness in my face and body was a direct result of both the alcohol consumption and the poor eating habits that often accompanied it. Alcohol, as a diuretic, can lead to dehydration, which paradoxically makes the body hold onto water, causing that puffy, swollen look.

But it wasn’t just about the alcohol itself.

When I was drinking, my judgment around food was clouded, and I found myself reaching for greasy, salty, and highly processed foods—choices I wouldn’t typically make when sober. These unhealthy foods, combined with the alcohol, led to a cycle of weight gain and inflammation. The excess calories from both the alcohol and the poor food choices quickly added up, resulting in significant weight gain over time.

Inflammation was another issue. Alcohol can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, and when combined with the consumption of inflammatory foods, it exacerbated the problem. My joints often felt achy, and I lacked the energy and vitality I have now. The water retention, poor food choices, and overall unhealthy lifestyle created a perfect storm for physical discomfort and mental dissatisfaction.

Now, looking at those old photos serves as a reminder of how far I’ve come. The decision to stop drinking has not only helped me shed the excess weight but has also led to a healthier relationship with food and a body that feels more balanced and at ease.

What have been some benefits of me quitting drinking for good?

There have been countless advantages of quitting alcohol. Both physically and mentally.  My skin is not as dry or red.  Face is less puffy.  Overall body is not as puffy or bloated.  Better sleep.  Fewer alcohol related symptoms like headache, heartburn, indigestion and upset stomach.  Today I’m able to get proper sleep and rest.  Anxiety and nervousness have been suppressed.  I no longer crave greasy fast food as I did before.  When drinking my joints used to hurt.  Overall now I’m completely aware of how important it is to take care of myself both mentally and physically.

View exercise and eating healthy as a lifestyle not a diet

We need to make the choice that exercising and eating real healthy foods is a part of our lifestyle and not a “diet”.If we commit to a diet for an amount of time, we will only go back to making poor choices when we stop the diet.  When I was around 17 years old, I drastically reduced the amount of food I was eating.  This really reduced the amount of energy I had.  I also became flabby skinny from not eating properly.  I later learned it was better to consistently eat healthy foods to support a healthy lifestyle.