Joel Fuhrman - Eat To Live

Eat to Live 231

our lives. If you are not sleeping well, you can become overwhelmed

more easily by stressful situations. An audiotape or CD to guide you

in relaxation can be very helpful in reducing stress and sleeping bet-

ter. My friend Ronald Cridland, M.D., a sleep specialist in Canada,

and I have both found Eli Bay's tapes extremely useful for our pa-

tients. Ordering information can be found on my website.

Self-monitoring: Accept that this diet is a lifetime commitment.

The individual most likely to succeed is one who has changed both

his habits and mind-set. Food diaries, weekly weigh-ins, physical ac-

tivity logs, and goal setting are all effective ways to stay on track. The

primary purpose of self-monitoring is to become aware of behaviors

and factors that either positively or negatively influence your food

and activity choices. Research has consistently demonstrated that

self-monitoring is a helpful tool that improves outcome.^10

1 suggest you make a list of goals that losing weight will help you

accomplish and post it in a visible place where you will see it in your

home. Add to it from time to time and check off those accomplish-

ments as you achieve them. Make the goals very specific to you, such

as the following:

I will be confident about my ability to resist disease.

1 will succeed at losing pounds and regaining excellent health.

I will be able to fit into fashionable clothes, including my fa-

vorite blue dress.

My cholesterol will improve at least 50 points.

I will look good in a bathing suit at the pool this summer.

I will have more energy and be able to enjoy bike trips with my

children.

My husband/wife/other will find me more attractive.

My job will be less tiring and I will perform better and make

more money.

I will save money on health care and will be able to save for my

retirement.

I will have a better social life and be in a position to attract John

[or Jane].

My knees and back will stop hurting.

I will gain the respect of my peers.

My allergies, constipation, indigestion, headaches, and acne will

all resolve.

My fears about a health crisis or death will subside.