Two months ago, I noticed that I have been gaining weight because I haven’t paid attention to my diet as I have become so caught up in my business plans. Around the same time, I also realized that I needed to start saving money because of those business plans. Then I had an epiphany: By changing my diet, I can save my health and my money. This is what I do now:

For Breakfast:

Replace one bagel with cream cheese for half a bagel with a thin layer of cream cheese.

Replace two eggs on a roll with one egg on whole-wheat toast. (I also made sure I was charged less when I ordered).

Replace coffee with green tea.

For Lunch:

Have a salad with juicy tomatoes and other juicy vegetables or fruit. The juice eliminates the need for a dressing.

Have half a sandwich instead of the whole. Make sure you are charged for half. Take one bite at a time and chew it well. You will be full.

Replace juices and soda with water. Most offices offer a water cooler for free.

For Snack:

Replace cookies, cakes, juices and soda with nuts, dried fruit, fresh fruit and water. Buy some nuts and dried fruits and keep them in the office.

For Dinner:

If you are ordering in or dining out, ask for half a portion of whatever it is you order. Ask that they charge half price as well. Skip the bread and the butter.

Replace condiments with juicy fruits and vegetables.

If you are cooking, grill or broil instead of frying.

Replace carbs such as pasta and potatoes with vegetables. Eat the carbs less frequently.

Have a glass of wine with your dinner. Make time to enjoy your food. That means you have to eat it slowly.

Result: I lost 3.5 lbs in one month.

My goal is to save money, teach your stomach to require less food, digest your food better and, as a result, feel lighter, sharper, and energized for your aspirations and whatever else important to you.

Filed under: Taking Care of Yourself