How many times have you started a diet only to feel miserable, and eventually give up, and then feel guilty for it?
Diets are usually associated with end goals, such as weight loss or muscle building, but they aren't sustainable in the long run, unfortunately.
There is an alternative to dieting that is much more natural, practical, and doable. This is the practice of intuitive eating. Intuitive eating is a higher quality way to view your relationship with food and doing so in a way that makes you feel good. Intuitive eating allows you to listen to your body and eat whatever makes you feel your absolute best rather than restricting food, counting calories, and following any diet "rules".
If you listen, your body will be able to tell you precisely what you need to thrive -- it just takes some practice learning how to tune in and listen for the cues.
Here are some ways that you can start eating intuitively.
Don't ignore your hunger cues.
Too many diets focus on ignoring your hunger and training yourself to eat smaller portions. Hunger is our body's signal that it needs more nourishment and energy, and I truly believe we should pay attention to those cues. Practice honoring your hunger cues by feeding yourself nourishing foods, and work on distinguishing hunger from other emotions (such as boredom or sadness). When we ignore our hunger cues, we are left feeling exhausted, irritable, and usually, that leaves us having a negative relationship with food. It takes some practice, but listening to what your body needs will help you give it exactly that -- what it needs!
Forget the idea that there are "good" foods and "bad" foods.
All foods have different nutritional values, and some have more nutrients than others. However, the idea of good foods and bad foods only re-enforces restriction, feelings of guilt, and a negative relationship with food. All foods are good for something, whether they're full of micronutrients, give you a boost of energy, or make you happy. Start asking whether your foods are nutrient-dense instead of "bad" or "good." If you prioritize eating nutrient-dense foods and still enjoy the other foods you love, you'll figure out the perfect balanced approach that'll work the best for your unique body.
Identify your cravings.
Have you ever been on a diet that eliminates all sugar, carbohydrates, sodium, or anything else? It feels like there's nothing you want more than to eat those foods that are off-limits. If you wish to eat something, allow yourself to satisfy that craving. If you're craving something sweet, have a bowl of fruit or some dark chocolate. If you still have that craving afterward, identify why exactly you feel that way. Maybe your cravings originate from feeling stressed, upset, being dehydrated, or feeling tired. Our cravings are telling us something! Usually, it’s relatively easy to tap in and figure out where they're coming from.
View your food as nourishment, not punishment.
You eat to fuel your body with all the nutrients it needs to thrive. You eat to give yourself the energy to study, work, play, and feel your best. Food is your fuel, and it is in no way a punishment! We do not need to earn our meals, and when we shift this way of thinking, everything else falls into place.
Intuitive eating definitely takes some work, but once you start and are focused on this positive relationship with food you'll begin to see dramatic changes to your overall wellbeing, both physically and mentally.
How do feel about intuitive eating? Let me know in the comment section below.
Looking for some fall recipes? Check out my Nutrition and Wellness Library.
Inside you will find meal plans, healthy recipes and so much more.
Click below and sign up - it’s free!
