Posted in Lifestyle, Weight Management

Weight Loss, Baking, and Finding the Balance

Image• Posted on by Janet

I’ve always loved sweet things. Growing up, Mum baked every week—cakes, biscuits, slices—you name it. It was a treat to come home to that smell, and looking back, it was a lovely way to grow up. But it also set me up with a lifelong love of sugar and butter… all the “good” ingredients.🍰

I still love baking (and eating it), and I don’t think that will ever change. Anything syrupy, buttery, sticky—I’m there. But here’s what I’ve figured out as I’ve got older: desserts are fine, but not every day. I used to think finishing everything on your plate was polite, and I still enjoy trying what others make, especially when you’re out socialising. It’s part of the fun.

But now I’ve learned to enjoy just a little. I take a big bite, really savour it, and then stop. No second helping. I save my sweet treat for the weekend, and I don’t feel guilty about it. And if I leave food on the plate? That’s fine too. I just look at the judgers and think to myself, “it’s no one else’s business.”

Janet’s Best Tip for Dieting and Baking 🍪⚖️

Don’t give up baking—just change how you enjoy it.
Bake what you love, take a bite, and share the rest. Freeze portions, gift it to neighbours, or bring it to a morning tea. That way, you still get the joy of baking (and tasting!), but without the daily temptation sitting on the bench.

Speaking of finding balance—Dolly Parton has a quote that always makes me smile:

“I tried every diet in the book. I tried some that weren’t even in the book. I tried eating the book. It tasted better than most of the diets.”

And I have to laugh when I think of something else Dolly Parton once said:

“My weaknesses have always been food and men—in that order.”

She’s honest, funny, and real—just like this journey with baking and balance.

📊 Want a Little Help Staying on Track?

I use my simple weight loss tracker which helps me stay focused without being too strict. You can get your free copy here.

What About You?

What are your favourite baking treats—and how do you manage to enjoy them without overdoing it? I’d love to hear your tips.

Still loving pavlova – just with a side of salad now. ♡ Janet

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This blog is my creative scrapbook and journal—a Kiwi’s take on food, travel, and life’s little moments.

4 thoughts on “Weight Loss, Baking, and Finding the Balance”

  1. I was brought up the same way, desert every day after supper. I love baking, but I serve small portions and we’re very active so it doesn’t seem to be a problem. But I don’t have sugary drinks or snacks, just desert. I think that’s part of it for others

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    1. Thanks for sharing — that sounds very familiar. For me dessert was just part of the routine. I agree, small portions and staying active really help. And yes, it’s often the extra sugary snacks and drinks that sneak in. Nice to hear from another baker!

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