Balance

When it comes to diet, I’ve tried a ton of those “fads” you hear all about.  I’ve been gluten free, dairy free, sugar free, vegan, pescatarian, paleo, raw, all leading to an end and moving on trying the best new thing. For the majority, I’ve eaten paleo (gluten free, sugar free, dairy free) and it’s been great, but I’d still find myself with those cravings for bread, pasta, and sweets, all the really good things in life. Yes, I would cheat and have an occasional pizza slice or cookie, but that was once in a blue moon. I felt great, but my body still craved something else.

I’ve read countless books, articles, and journals about health and nutrition all giving different opinions: all grains are bad, dairy is evil, healthy grains are great, eat lots of dairy and fat, the list goes on. I was so bombarded with conflicting information it was driving me crazy! I was so confused. What is the right thing to eat? What should I avoid? Should I really completely eliminate certain food groups?

What I’ve come to know to be true is that balance is key. Listen to your body. Completely eliminating food groups may be good for some people who are intolerant to certain things, but it might not be right for everyone. Every body is different, and listening to your body figuring out what it craves and desires (not talking about sweets here but nutrients) is vital to providing it with the best nutrition to fuel it properly.

So, what do I eat now? I try to stay balanced incorporating all the food groups into my diet while drinking loads of water. That includes grains, dairy, fruit, lots of veggies, and healthy fats (in different quantities). When possible, I make sure to buy organic without any icky ingredients added like sugar. Including all the major food groups into my diet, I’ve seen such an improvement in my health. My skin is improving, I’m losing fat and toning my body, my energy levels remain high throughout the day, and I’m not getting cravings for sugary foods because my body has received all the nutrients it needs.

When you provide your body with the kinds of nutrients it needs and the right amounts (hint serving sizes), you won’t feel the need to eat seconds, thirds, and fourths because your body will be content!