Jon Stanton

Hey everyone! I've posted some new stuff on here, so be sure to check it out. There are photos from the American Diabetes Association Step Out and Walk Event, where I served as Michigan Ambassador. There are also a few photos from the Governor's Fitness Awards, with more yet to come.

I've also posted a couple of links to new articles that you might find interesting. I'm still working hard to get the word out that it is possible to be healthy and fit and still enjoy life and enjoy food. My calendar has remained full with various speaking engagements. If you know of a group that would like to hear my story, click the contact tab to send me an email and let me know!

Now, to some helpful advice. Recently at one of my speaking events, someone asked me how I handle eating "on the run." My initial reaction was that I try to eat on the run as little as possible. Why? It's very difficult to find healthy items, and you're much more likely to break the calorie bank when you eat on the run.

One way I avoid it is to carefully plan what and when I'm going to eat throughout the week. If I know I have something going on in the evening that will prevent from eating at home, I purposely plan how and where I will eat. If I only have a limited amount of time to eat, I will usually go to Subway and get one of their Fresh n Fit meals - half as sub off the Fresh n Fit menu, a yogurt, and iced tea to drink. (Maybe a bag of apples too, if I'm especially hungry). I HIGHLY SUGGEST STAYING AWAY FROM CERTAIN FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS THAT SPECIALIZE IN BEEF PRODUCTS! Are there some healthy items available at these places? Perhaps, but the temptations are often overwhelming, and even things that seem healthy (like salads or chicken sandwiches) are often loaded with unhealthy stuff (like high calorie dressings or condiments). BE INTENTIONAL about what you are eating. Take the time to do the research and check out those nutrition facts. Educate yourself!

One last thing about "eating on the run." I used to have a terrible habit of buying something to eat or snack on whenever I stopped at a gas station. This is also a bad idea. Now, I generally avoid buying anything but gas. If I am legitimately hungry, I make sure to bypass the candy, cookies, donuts, etc. and work my way over to the granola bars.

Finally, I do want to say that it's perfectly OK to have a burger and fries once in a while. It's also OK to have a packet of cookies from the gas station occasionally. USE YOUR HEAD though! If you cannot exercise self-control, then don't even go there until you reach a point where you can control your choices. Remember - losing weight is a mind game - it's all about what's in your head and controlling impulsive behavior. Your stomach plays a minor role - your brain is MUCH more important. Good luck!