Eating in Moderation: A Key to a Healthy Lifestyle
People ask me all the time:
As a Nutritional Therapist, I am often asked questions like,
"Should I eat meat or switch to a vegan diet?",
"Can I eat carbs or should I try ketosis?",
"Should I eat five times a day or twice a day?",
"Can I have a glass of wine on a daily basis?",
"Can I have a cheat meal once a week?",
"Can I eat potatoes, etc.?"
My answer to all of these questions is simple: it depends.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to healthy eating. We are all unique individuals with different nutritional needs. What works for one person may not work for another. That's why it's important to try different things and observe how your body reacts.
Nutritional recommendations are constantly evolving, and what was once considered healthy may not be so today. For example, a few years ago, breakfast was considered the most important meal of the day, but now many people are advocating for skipping breakfast. Similarly, the advice to eat five small meals a day has now been replaced by the recommendation to eat only two meals a day.
Sticking to a healthy eating plan can be challenging, especially if you don't keep up with the latest nutrition trends. But, in my experience, there is one rule that applies to everyone: MODERATION.
If you look at elderly people who are in good health and mental condition, you'll notice that they tend to have a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and herbs. They also tend to have discipline and control over their food portions.
Discipline is key to success in all areas of life, and healthy eating is no exception. Unfortunately, many people are resistant to change, even if it means cutting back on things like bread, cheese, and alcohol. I often hear responses like:
"Are you crazy?"
or my favourite
"Sorry, it's too much for me."
But here's the truth: 70% of people don't even try to cut down on unhealthy foods. They simply give up before they even start. Is that really what you want? Are you willing to let bread or cocktails take control over your goals?
We live in a world where everything is easy to get. We can order anything we want online, and we don't have to put much effort into anything. As a result, consumption has increased, and people tend to focus on getting more and more. This mentality has spilled over into our relationship with food. We want food that is easy to get, cheap, tasty, and, most of all, abundant. Quality and nutritional value have taken a backseat.
But if you want to live a healthy lifestyle, you need to be willing to make some effort. You need to moderate and control the portions of your meals, and you need to be disciplined. Remember, discipline is the key to success in every part of your life.
In conclusion, healthy eating is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person may not work for another. But one thing that is universally important is moderation. If you can practice discipline and control over your food portions, you will be well on your way to achieving your health goals.
Ready Design Healthy Meal Plan
1500 calories, 1600 calories or for 1800 calories!
Gluten-Free, Dairy- Free & No Meat options available!