New Year, New You – No Thanks! January is typically the diet industry’s busiest month, when it makes every effort to target people’s insecurities. As a result, many people become overwhelmed by the numerous quick-fix weight loss plans that promise to solve their problems.

Crash diets that promote unsustainable weight loss can leave people cutting out major food groups and nutrients in order to lose weight quickly. This can lead to yo-yo dieting, muscle loss, nutrient deficiencies, and ultimately metabolic adaptation, which can ultimately cause more weight to be regained in the long run, even though the New Year can be a motivating time for some people to make some changes.

Fad diets can be expensive, and in order to stay “on track,” you often have to change your social habits. Social connection is one of the main pillars of health and keeps people from going down the wrong path.

Additionally, many fad diets promote the idea that there are good and bad foods, despite the fact that portion size and frequency of consumption are the most important factors. A well-balanced and healthy diet can include all foods.

The message “New Year, New You” can have a negative psychological impact on people’s self-esteem because it encourages them to believe that they are not good enough as they are and that they must conform to society’s “ideals” at this time.

It is essential to determine what is best for you and your way of life. Nutrition is such a personal matter that what works for one person may not work for another. Focusing on nourishing food throughout the day is a great place to start because we all have different time constraints, budgets, cooking skills, and preferences. Instead of focusing on restrictive eating, such as eating more fiber (from plants!), aim for regular, well-balanced meals and snacks. movement and fluidity!

Instead of focusing on your weight, focus on your long-term objectives and the benefits to your health.

You CAN have your soul food because life is about balance and moderation, not starvation! You CAN change your relationship with food!