It can be easy to get into a pattern of eating what you think are the wrong foods and then feeling terrible about it. You can avoid feeling terrible and find a balanced way of eating that you enjoy. To do this you should eat what you like, eat natural foods, and honor your hunger.
Eat What You Like
Eating what you like is important in your nourishment. Eating foods you hate just because they are “good” will leave you feeling unsatisfied, and more guilty when you do have “bad” foods. Getting rid of labels like “good” and “bad” can help you in your pursuit of feeling better about what you eat. Putting food on a “bad” list essentially puts it on a pedestal. This can create a greater desire for these foods, which can leave you eating more of this food when you finally give in. Honoring your desires for all foods can help you find a balance between nutrient-dense foods and foods you enjoy.
Eat Natural Foods
Many foods available today are highly processed and full of sugars, preservatives, and flavorings. Eating these foods won’t give you the nutrients you need or keep you satisfied. Natural foods tend to be the most nutrient-dense. That means the food has more vitamins and minerals that are essential for the working of your body. Eating natural foods can help you feel better about what you eat because it will help you feel better physically.
Honor Your Hunger
Your hunger is an important body cue that lets you know you need nutrients and energy. Tuning in to your hunger can let you know when you should eat which can help you feel more relaxed and in control. It can even help you make better choices. If you allow yourself to become ravenously hungry, the likelihood you will make a more nutritious choice goes down. You may also find yourself eating faster which is poor for your digestion. Allowing yourself to eat, even if it isn’t at the “right time” will help you feel good about what you eat.
You should feel good about what you eat. Eating foods you like, quality foods, and honoring your body’s hunger cues will help you get there because you are removing the guilt from eating. It may take some time to change your habits, so have patience with yourself as you change one thing at a time.
Check out this article on how to change your diet for the better!
