Making the Choice to Change My Eating Habits to Improve My Health
Guest Blogger
| 2 min read
I was raised in a Puerto Rican household where food equaled love. Rice, beans, fried plantains, and pork, were a standard staple in my home. Overeating and a sedentary lifestyle led me to gain weight over the years. It did not help when I joined Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as a customer service representative, and fell into the habit of going out for lunch, and making unhealthy food choices.
I finally got real with myself and joined Weight Watchers 13 years ago, jump-starting my journey toward a healthier lifestyle.
I was afraid of hurting my mom’s feelings each time she offered me a second helping. It was a pleasant surprise when she backed up my efforts and modified her cooking; roasting instead of frying.
I was afraid that I would not be able enjoy all of the rich and delicious foods I have always enjoyed. Eventually I learned that by incorporating exercise in my routine and watching portion sizes, I could still have flan and fried plantains from time to time.
It has not been easy, but, I am proud that I have lost and maintained 70 pounds. I am still not at the, “ideal”, weight according to medical standards, but I am at my personal best. The Hispanic community is known for its rich foods. Hopefully, my story can educate others on how to live healthier lifestyles.
Photo credit: churl hun
Eileen Taylor is a manager at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. She received her B.A. in journalism from Michigan State University and an MBA in Human Resources from Davenport University. Taylor worked in the Lansing BCBSM location for 16 years until she decided it was time for a change and accepted a position in the Detroit BCBSM office, where she has been for the last year. She leads a customer service team and is avid Spartan fan. She has a 20-year-old daughter, Jacquelyn, who attends Central Michigan University. Eileen keeps active by doing 30 minutes of strength training and 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise five times per week.
This blog post is part of #HealthyMe, a personalized web experience based on your health and wellness goals. To sign up today, visit https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/healthyme
