Al Día Today

By Laura Hall, Psy.D.
Guest Columnist

In a perfect world, the people in your life would always be supportive, understanding and inspiring. Realistically, the people in your life cover the entire spectrum, from very supportive to very unhelpful. Unsupportive family, friends, co-workers and acquaintances, otherwise known as weight loss saboteurs, can make your weight loss journey seem impossible.

Some people may act like the food police and point out every morsel that enters your mouth. Others will discourage you and tell you that weight loss is a pipe dream. A few will even knowingly tempt you with your favorite foods in hopes that you do not lose weight. But in reality, only you can give other people the power to sabotage your weight loss efforts.

Dr. Laura is sought after for her work with emotional eating, child development & school assessment, family health and wellness, and women’s issues. Dr. Laura is a Clinical Psychologist in Florida and New York.

The only person who determines whether your weight loss efforts will be successful is you. The choice is yours. People may pressure you to eat even when you are not hungry. Perhaps you are faced with your mother-in-law’s cold shoulder after you say no to a second helping of her lasagna. Or maybe you are singled out at Uncle John’s birthday party because you do not take a slice of birthday cake.

The pressures other people place on you to eat are virtually inevitable; but you make the final choice regarding to whom you will listen. As long as you blame other people for your bad choices and refuse to be accountable, you will be frustrated, angry and bitter.

Once you claim accountability for your actions, you are headed toward a life of freedom. So remember that even if Charlie, Sally or Lucy pressure you to return to your unhealthy habits, they are not responsible for your choices. The only person accountable for your decisions, choices, and focus in life is you.

Chef J’s Secret Recipe
Easy baked grouper and vegetables

Dr. Laura’s Shopping List:

1.5 pound fresh grouper [cut into four pieces]

Half cup chopped cherry tomatoes

Half cup sliced onion

Half cup sliced celery

Salt and pepper to taste
One teaspoon fresh thyme [optional]

Chef’s Cooking Instructions:

Preheat oven to 425.

Lightly spray baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.

On bottom of pan, evenly place celery, onion and tomatoes.

Place fish on top of vegetables, and lightly salt and pepper, add thyme if desired.

Place an oven-proof lid or piece tinfoil on top of pan.

Bake in hot oven for 18 - 20 minutes.
[* or until fish “separates into flakes” when checked with a fork]
Serve hot- enjoy!

Chef J. is an internationally recognized food product developer, culinary trend expert, and food writer.

Visit
ChefJandDrLaura.com
for more information.

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