My first birthday (and cake)
Me aged 1 year
With a nick name like Oblong, it is no wonder that I developed “food issues” from a young age! Born to a generation in which over weight was not the norm, I guess I was a chubby baby. The label Oblong however was a left over from my 3 older siblings and sadly it stopped with me – the chubby baby of the family.
Aged 4
Aged 3
Aged 6-7
By the time I was five, I was walking 3 kms to school and home each day. My vegemite sandwich (wrapped in greaseproof paper), an apple, and a bottle of cordial in my little school bag. My nickname was no longer relevant or applicable, it did however hang around, and to my horror had extended to fatty! So it is no wonder that from a young age I have been very aware of my weight, my appearance and my health.
There are many elements that contribute to the decisions we make around, what, when, and why we choose to eat. Interestingly hunger has very little to do with it. Eating is influenced by emotional, social, historical, and environmental factors, and we frequently turn to food for comfort, stress relief, or as a reward . Furthermore food is seen as an important and enjoyable element of social and family gatherings making habitual eating habits harder to overcome.
There are several scientific, evidence based explanations around why the low carb or LCHF way of eating can impact our energy levels, satiety and emotions about food. Personal experience however, is the best way to rationalise the benefits of reducing processed carbohydrates and eating a diet based on whole and natural foods.
This instinctive way of eating has allowed me, for the first time for as far back as I can remember to have control over my food choices. My food choices are no longer ruled by my emotions or controlled by insulin levels triggered by my previous meal or snack.
I look back on those baby photos now and see a baby and toddler that was healthy and loved, a bit spoilt and yes a little chubby. I also recognise how every one of these things has shaped the way I have lived, the choices I have made, and maybe steered me in this very foodie direction!!
Seed Crackers
Spicy Easter Buns
Almond Meal Bread
