When the Reid family began the Portion Size Me project, it had a timeline: one summer. In that time, Marshall dropped three body mass index points and his mom lost weight, as well.
However, at the end of the summer, everyone felt so much better and so much more energy that they knew this “project” was more than that. It was a lifestyle that they needed — and wanted — to adopt permanently.
MARSHALL SAYS
I never really thought about what I was eating. If it tasted good and was easy, then I wanted it. Sweets and junk food didn’t seem like a big deal because everyone eats them.
MOM SAYS
I allowed the tick tock of our hectic schedules to take over. Once upon a time, I made nutritious homemade baby food and froze it in ice cube trays. In the blink of an eye, fast food and prepackaged products for convenience became the norm. I never truly considered real foods versus processed foods. And I certainly didn’t take time to read and understand ingredients. Quite honestly, I was tired of hearing the family moan when I did make meals, and God forbid I should invite them to cook with me, nothing gets done quickly then.
Now, on the second “phase” of the Portion Size Me lifestyle, the Reids are rediscovering the kitchen in a way that still fits a busy lifestyle. The children contribute to meal making and have a greater sense of control over what they can accomplish. Everyone stops to consider the items were putting into our bodies as fuel.
To Join The Movement:
1. Eat as many “REAL” foods as possible
2. Take a moment to read the ingredients of packaged foods you choose. Choose items with the fewest ingredients and make sure you can pronounce all the words.
3. Pause before you eat something and make an active decision as to whether or not you want or need it.
4. Get moving.
5. Help out in the kitchen and ask to plan some of your own meals.
What would you add?
