Why Planning Your Meal Is Important?

You overate over the holiday weekend. Now what?⁠

First of all, do not freak out. These things happen. You’re more likely to eat more than your norm when you’re around company, and during celebrations, especially if alcohol is involved. Just because you overate, does not mean you need to punish yourself going forward.⁠

It is important that instead of feeling guilt, you take time to understand your triggers so that you can become more in control if a similar situation should present itself in the future. When you take the time to reflect on what triggers you to overeat, you can develop a greater understanding on why you engage in this behavior.⁠

Could it be that you have been restricting yourself from eating certain foods, and suddenly finding yourself in an environment where that food was present it was hard to resist?⁠

Did you feel that you had to earn your calories so you starved all day, and therefore ended up binging at night?⁠

Was alcohol involved? Alcohol increases the likelihood of overeating by disrupting your ability to monitor your body’s signals. Research suggests that even moderate consumption of alcohol can trigger an increase in your appetite and food intake.⁠

Once you’ve gotten a clear understanding of your triggers, Do not starve yourself moving forward to rectify your behavior because this isn’t sustainable, can disrupt your hormones, and lead to a binge.

Instead, you should plan your next meals in advance. When you have a plan for what to eat and when to eat, you’re able to keep hunger at bay and are less likely to overeat.

Get back on track by keeping your weight loss and health goals in mind. Staying attentive to your goals, serves as motivation to press forward.⁠

Looking for a sustainable way of eating that allows you to lose weight and nourish your body for optimal health? I’ll show you how. Apply for nutrition coaching.⁠

Don’t Obsessing On Counting Your Calories

The idea of counting calories as a key to weight loss is deeply ingrained in diet culture. As a Registered Dietitian, I come across many people who on their weight loss journey feel extremely guilty whenever they go over their self-imposed calorie amounts.

They don’t take the time to savor their food, make conscious eating choices when it comes to food quality, or enjoy the company they are with because they are busy with obsessing over their calories. Instead of fully enjoying the moment, they are preoccupied with their calorie tracking apps, and ignore many of the signals their body gives them for hunger or fullness because it all boils down to making the numbers work.
This preoccupation with tracking calories can lead to disordered eating which is a whole other beast.

Other factors that affect your overall weight loss are hormonal imbalances, stress, sleep patterns and exercise. Creating an energy deficit with your meals will help you to lose weight, but it is only a small part of the equation. Simply put, you don’t need to count calories in other to be successful with weight loss.

Getting a handle on your emotions, identifying your eating patterns, and getting in tune with your hunger and fullness signals is key to losing weight and keeping it off.

As a weight loss expert I teach my clients how to lose weight and keep it off with simple strategies, scientifically backed nutrition education, and a personalized meal plan.

If you’re ready to lose weight and keep it off for good, sign up for my nutrition coaching program.

Easy Tips To Create A Balanced Nutritious Meal

It is incredibly easy to create a balanced meal that is delicious, nourishing, and healthy. To do so, include the following: ⁠

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates fuel the body with much needed energy. However, not all carbs are created equal. Focus on eating mostly complex carbs which have more fiber, and are a great option for weight control, managing your blood glucose and cholesterol levels. Examples are bulgur, brown rice, beans, whole wheat pasta. ⁠

High Quality Protein: Protein is essential for building muscle mass, repairing tissues, and supporting neurological function. It also helps to suppress your appetite. When choosing animal protein try to select antibiotic and hormone free options. Plant based protein options include: Tofu and Lentils. ⁠

Healthy Fats: Healthy fats help to curb hunger and cravings, are involved in hormone regulation, support healthy brain function and improve your good cholesterol-which enhances your heart health. Examples are olive oil, avocado, nuts. ⁠

Vegetables: Veggies are rich in antioxidants, help to boost your immune system, regulate digestion, and protect against diseases like heart disease and type 2 Diabetes. Aim to eat a variety of different colored vegetables, and at least 5 cups a day. ⁠

Food is medicine, and in my nutrition coaching program I educate my clients on the types of foods to eat to supercharge their health. If you are confused about the kinds of food to eat to attain your health goals, let’s chat! Reserve your spot with me for a free dietary assessment call.

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