I spend a lot of time thinking about personal finances. From how I might be able to make more money to thinking about how I might be able to save another buck or two. Ironically enough, I often fail to consider another very important asset…my own health.
Earlier this week, my wife and I started a health kick of our own by trying to eat better. And, I have to tell you – I did not go into this with a smile.
You see, there aren't many things I like more than snack-sized Snickers and doughnuts! I'm pretty sure the sweet tooth originated in our family tree. As a little boy, I can remember how my grandparents always had a collection of chocolate chip cookies in the jar, hard candies in the drawer and Drumsticks in the freezer. Not to mention my own father with his candy collection up in the cupboard, always ready for the taking. I grew up on candy and snacks. And, I love 'em.
So going a week without any chocolate or candy is not easy.
But, that's what we have done. We're also eating less and adding more fruits and vegetables to the diet. (Did you know you are supposed to have about 5-7 CUPS of fruits and veggies every day?!)
This kick to start eating better is mainly due to some health concerns that my wife is experiencing and a belly of mine, too full of jelly – if you know what I mean. But, another precursor to it stems from a documentary that I recently watched called, “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead” (you can watch the whole thing on Hulu for free).
Without giving the movie away – it's based on a gentleman whose health was saved by taking up a juicing diet. And so, he decides to evangelize the US in his car, telling folks about the benefits of fruits and vegetables in a persons diet. He runs into two gentlemen who are “fat, sick and nearly dead” – and the film follows their story as they begin their own transformation through a juicing diet. The results were simply amazing.
I've finally realized that spending so much time contemplating and “doing” finances – but ignoring a very important asset (myself) – to be pretty foolish. My mother always used to say that if you're healthy – you are wealthy. It's funny how parents become wiser and wiser, as you get older.
And to be honest, you're going to be saving yourself money in the future by taking care of yourself now.
I hope you're eating good. While we can't predict how long we'll live – we can do everything in our power to be here for those who love us and to give us the best chance to be at our best.
I'm curious – do you eat pretty healthy? What things do you do to stay healthy? Also, have you seen the movie I mentioned? What were your thoughts on it?
4 Comments
Reading a older book ‘Dare To Be 100’ and it stresses we have to think ourselves to want to live that long and eating well is necessary to get there….
I am a grazer and need to watch the chocolate…
I believe the key to health is along with the right foods and all things in mderation – is a lot of exercise thru work or theu aerobic exercise….to keep health costs low and life a grewat life!
I hear you on the chocolate Sam – that is one of my biggest temptations too.
When I first saw the title I thought it was going to be about disability insurance, but eating well is another great way to take care of and protect yourself. It’s a pretty good insurance policy, if you think about it. By eating a variety of healthy foods, you’re insuring yourself against future sicknesses and health complications.
I try to eat at least one serving of fruit and one of veggies each day. I also try to make substitutions like wheat bread instead of white and lower sodium versions of snacks.
Haha..sorry to disappoint Ryan :) You’re right – my wife and I are insuring against our future. While eating healthier may be a bit more expensive, we figure better to pay now then later at the docs.