Consistent healthy habits trump random indulgences. It’s what you do every day that counts.
I understand that a health regime of extremes can be easier to follow than finding a balance as balance can be ambiguous. I often hear of people going on 30 days of quitting sugar, alcohol, wheat, gluten, dairy, chocolate etc etc. But what happens after the 30 days?
It’s great to gain more awareness into what foods and drinks are part of your daily habits and how it feels to give them a rest, but it’s pretty rare that someone can keep up restrictions for the long term. By all means kick start yourself with a 30 day challenge, but it’s important to plan for what’s next, because if you just revert back to previous habits, you probably won’t gain much.
One rule I recommend to help find balance a little easier is the 19/21 rule. This means that in one week there are 21 opportunities for a main meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner). Aim for 19 of these to be planned and in line with your health goals. But for 2 meals, enjoy and eat whatever you like (really)
This avoids you having that feeling when you’re out with friends, scanning the menu thinking “what the hell can I eat?!” “how many modifications will the chef be ok with?” – just go for it (unless of course you have an allergy or you are doing an elimination diet with the guidance of your health practitioner)
This approach means:
- less guilt
- more relaxed social occasions
- enjoying a little of what you fancy
- an overall well balanced and healthy diet
- freedom to have the night off cooking
Sound good? If you like this approach to health, why not book in for a free 15 minute chat with me?