My husband has recently been very concerned for his health. There’s nothing seriously wrong, but he’s gained a little weight since we were first married (it didn’t help that he tore his ACL and was pretty much out for several months) and he recognizes that he doesn’t always have the best eating habits. He’s been researching different meal plans and exercise regimens that he might be able to do that will help him get back into shape and get into a better health lifestyle.

As I’m sure many of you know, whether it’s a diet to lose weight or a new food lifestyle to help with other issues (e.g. a diabetic eating less sweets or a someone with Celiac’s disease removing gluten from their diet), it takes a lot of motivation to stick with a food plan! And sometimes the thing that can mess us up the most is actually our family! Here are some ways you can stick with your meal plan and even get your family on board ;).

*Make small changes at a time. Flipping a complete 180 is going to be a lot harder than taking small baby steps (e.g start serving more veggies with every meal, buy whole wheat instead of white, find one healthy substitution for something your family often enjoys). You’ll get a lot less rebuttal this way, and you’re more likely to stick with it long-term!

*Feed your family the same meals! This might not always work if you’re doing something like Shakeology, but most healthy diet plans involve lots of veggies and protein- and that’s something everyone needs! Teach your kids how to eat healthy from a young age ;). There’s no need to make 2 meals as long as kids are getting the calories they need! This will also be a lot easier on your wallet! If your food lifestyle change is more expensive (such as switching to gluten-free), try planning meals that avoid these things so you can still just cook one meal and everyone can enjoy it!

*Make it a family effort. Involve everyone in planning meals and have everyone make their own goals. They don’t necessarily all need to be on the same food regimen, but have everyone come up with one goal towards a healthier lifestyle (e..g no more soda, smaller portions, less processed foods). You’ll all be able to help each other accomplish your goals, and you’ll have a great support system behind you!

*Ask for your family’s support. Your family may not be completely on board with joining you on your journey to a healthy lifestyle, but if you approach them and explain to them that you need their help to see this thing through, they’re more likely to be aware of what junk they bring in the house and will be more conscientious of how they can continue to help you! I think this is a good rule of thumb regardless of the reason for your food lifestyle change.

*Find support wherever you can. If your family is not willing to get on board, find support through a friend or even an online group. Having a buddy or a support system is super beneficial when attempting a new food lifestyle, and if you can’t find that through your family, there are many other sources out there! Find someone that can help you and encourage you to stick to your plan!

*Remember your goals. Let’s face it- when you have other people in the house that aren’t following the same diet plan, you’re going to come across food temptations. Just remember why you’re following a diet/meal plan- and distract yourself with something else! (Go run or play the piano or start a project). If you stick with it, you’ll probably find that your family is going to notice, be impressed, and might even join in!

Dieting or switching to a different food lifestyle is not always easy, but it can be done! What have you done in the past that has helped you and your family? I’d love to hear your ideas!