Food Talk... the new coffee shop talk?

As I sit here in the coffee shop, trying to work on a different blog post I am distracted by all of the chatter around me... this happens easily and I can't help but notice that everyone's conversations seem to revolve around food, and the problems that they are having. They can't get their kids to eat, the new college kid can't seem to find time to eat healthy meals, another one is struggling with anxiety around food.

Is this really what our society has come to? Is food and what we do with it, really so stressful that it is our topic of conversation when we are meeting up with friends for coffee? What happened to discussing the weather, and the latest gossip? Why is this? Is it social media and the diet culture that it promotes? Are we just so busy that we don't have time to cook and feel stressed about it? We don't know how to prepare healthful meals? Or are we just so confused about it all that we have given up?

This really makes me sad, I myself have struggled with my relationship with food, and everything that surrounds it. I know what it feels like to be that college kid that wants to eat nutritiously, but doesn't know how to make it happen. I know what it feels like to be so busy that you don't know how or when you will buy groceries, never mind make them into a nutritious meal.

I don't know what the solution is for each individual person, but here is one thing that I have found to be true.. DON"T OVER COMPLICATE IT! With a little planning most of that stress can be erased.

Here are a few things that I have found to be helpful:

1. Plan a little - having a rough idea of what you can make during the week will keep you from scrounging around when you get home from work or class and likely giving up and getting take out.

2. Eat some fruit, eat some veggies, but don't stress about it. Some cut up veggies and fruit in the fridge for your snacking pleasure will go a long way!

3. Make a list and get your groceries ONCE a week.. Don't run to the store every day. Include fruits, veggies, some lean protein, whole grain carbohydrates and some treats on your list! Then stick to it, it will save you SO much time and money.

4. Grab a cook book, there are so many that are packed with easy 30 minute recipes. They are very easy to follow, and you will feel like a master chef in no time!

5. Lastly take time for yourself, alone and with friends! At these times, be present in that moment and not worrying about what other things need to be done, or what you should/should not be eating. Remember stress is a major influence on your health!