5 Questions to Ask When Considering a “Diet”
Think beyond the scale…
To say the last 18 months of COVID have been challenging is an understatement. While some of us found an opportunity to make changes that lead to healthier lifestyles and weight loss, some of us found ourselves on the other end of the spectrum. Regular routines disrupted, gyms closed, the kitchen now just steps from our “office”, and the new stress COVID added disrupted many healthy lifestyles. This lead to what I have heard affectionately, or not so affectionately, referred to as the COVID 20.
As we emerge from our quarantine bubbles and put on “regular” pants again, many of us might be contributing to the rebound of the fitness and diet industry as we search for a way to shed the unwelcome new pounds. Much like the fashion industry, fads come and go and there are a wide range of options from which to choose. And, as with many fashion trends, just because it’s trendy, doesn’t mean it works well for everyone. Many diets will indeed result in weight loss, so how do we know which one is the best for us?
I would like to state that I do not advocate for “dieting”, rather a healthy approach to eating based on moderation, balance and enjoyment. Having said that, I also recognize the need and desire for boundaries when it comes to eating. Freedom and choice can be overwhelming when it comes to food and a plan with clear boundaries can provide a sense of direction. There are pros and cons with the plethora of diets and ongoing debate over which one is the “healthiest”. I want to take a minute to pose some questions to help determine which one might be the best fit for you based on your preferences. Here are a handful of questions I invite you to consider if you find yourself browsing the various diet plans out there.
Outside of the potential to shed some pounds, what about this diet appeals to me? I mean I get it, for most of us seeing the number on the scale go down is our goal. I am also a self-professed foodie and think eating should remain an enjoyable act of daily life. So when you look at diet plans, consider the pros and cons outside of the potential for shedding pounds and how do you see your life on this plan? Are you smiling?
On a scale of 1-10, how difficult will it be for me to stick to this plan? (10 being it will suck every ounce of energy from my body and soul to adhere to it.) I have tried the no/low carb diets, I’ve tried counting macros, counting calories and for me, it was like walking uphill all day with a heavy backpack. In other words, it felt hard almost all of the time. With that in mind, I also learned from each of these attempts and carry those lessons with me. More on that in another blog.
What happens when social events come up or I simply find myself out of my controlled or regular environment? Holidays, birthdays, parties, vacations, business trips….they happen. How does your plan work when these things arise? Is your plan adaptable for these types of things or will you be swan diving off the so called “diet wagon”?
How long do I see myself eating in this manner and does that line up with my health goals? Be honest with yourself and consider whether you are looking for a short-term quick fix, or to make some life long changes in the way you eat. If you are looking for the latter, how does the plan help move you toward your health goals?
What about this plan makes me think it will be a successful strategy for me? My friend lost 20 lbs on this diet and her friend lost 25 lbs! It’s easy to assume that we will also experience success on the same diet plan. I’d like to highlight it’s important to define what success looks like for you. If you lose 15 lbs and a year from now find yourself 20 lbs heavier, was it a success?
There are a number of diets to choose from, each touting why they are the best and it’s up to you to decide which one is the best fit for you. In my experience with diets (and I’ve tried a lot), no one was the best fit for me. I’ve taken bits and pieces from various ones and implemented the concept into my own personal style of eating which allows me to enjoy food and all of life’s occasions. I no longer go on a diet to lose weight. My diet is consistent with pieces of routine, variety, and controlled indulgences. Food is a friend to my body and we are enjoying life.
I hope this has given you some food for thought (pun intended) as you consider your own eating plan. Have questions or want to chat more about finding the right plan for you? Drop me a message at ctwellnessrn@gmail.com.