Just Sayin’

I’d like to give a shoutout to my mom for the gift of good genes and a nice, speedy metabolism for most of my life.

I never really appreciated it because I never even thought too much about it. I just knew I could pretty much eat whatever I wanted and it didn’t really move the scale. Oof. I took it way for granted. Until now. Thanks, 40s.

I’m not totally sure, but I feel like the whole COVID situation was the start of my extra-bad eating habits. Let’s face it, life was weird. We were all cooped up, bingeing Netflix and having all the snacks. The only place we could go when we just had to get out was a drive-through. I found the Andy’s Frozen Custard drive-through to be particularly satisfying. Oh, did I mention it’s super close to Chick-Fil-A? 

So then, I decided to take charge of my mental health. I started taking medication. I had heard stories of others experiencing weight gain while taking anti-depressants. My final analysis? The pill itself didn’t cause the uptick in pounds. But it did cure my anxiety and made me feel so happy that I decided food contributed to my inner joy, so why not?! I was having dessert after every meal. I was drinking sweet tea like it was my job. But then it just didn’t feel so good anymore. I didn’t feel good anymore. I knew I had to make changes.

I started the #75softchallenge a few months ago and I’ve lost 15 lbs. by totally transforming my eating habits, drinking a ridiculous amount of water each day and walking or going for a ride on my Peloton. It’s kind of crazy because I’ve actually lost my desire to eat garbage, and believe me, I was consuming all of it. At first, I was actually mad about how much water I was drinking. Now, I crave the way I feel when I’m totally hydrated. But the biggest change of all is that I’ve ditched my all-or-nothing mentality. When I do have a treat, I just jump back in. I don’t get stuck in the land of chocolate, donuts and sugary drinks.

I’m a work in progress! But right now, I’m feeling really proud of myself for sticking with it. I’m just a couple pounds away from my goal. My clothes are fitting so much better! I feel better. 

I’m writing this as encouragement if you’re feeling like you just don’t even know where to begin. I didn’t either. It all seemed so daunting. But, just jump in. If I can do it, you can do it.

Jenny Matthews co-hosts The Morning Drive with Mike Kellar + Jenny Matthews on Q104 New Hit Country, weekday mornings from 6 – 10am. Connect at www.jennymatthewsonair.com and check out The Morning After with Mike Kellar + Jenny Matthews podcast!