In the Fall/Winter seasons especially, it can be challenging to make healthy choices. I'm not saying I can always control myself around my mom's mashed potatoes, but it's important to find a balance within your diet.
1. One cheat meal won't do anything!
Yes and no. It's okay to let loose and indulge in some cheat foods now and then, but we also have to keep in mind that healthy living is a lifestyle, not a diet. When I struggle to choose fruit over chips, I try to remind myself that each choice I make is a step to forming either good or bad habits. Next time you're struggling to make the healthier choice, keep in mind how it will affect you in the long run, and how you'll feel physically after eating it.
2. I can choose not have a cheat meal.
Although it's important to build good habits, it's also healthy to have a few cheat meals or foods now and then. If you are constantly resisting your cravings, your body is bound to snap and overeat because you have felt deprived. Resisting craves is similar to bottling emotions, they're bound to burst out all at once and have much more severe consequences.
3. It's too hard to be consistently healthy!
It can be difficult, but one of the things that help me to try to be consistent is to plan ahead. Planning my meals for the day (or the week if you're that organized) can be a huge help in preventing stops at Chick-fil-a or Chipotle on my way home. Meal prepping is a great way of doing this and saving time during busy weeks. Being conscious of your eating habits can be challenging, so it's easiest to take each day meal-by-meal and to plan ahead.
4. I worked out, I earned this
I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to be conscious of what you eat after a workout. Junk foods can diminish muscles and prevent muscle growth- essentially ruining all your hard work and slowing your body's recovery. If you're on the go or just feeling lazy, opt for a homemade protein shake or some eggs and peanut butter toast. Make your workout worth-while and chose wisely to get those #gains.
5. Life's short, I'm going to eat what I want!
Although life is short, this means that it's essential to take care of the only body you have. What you eat can affect your energy levels, mood, skin, immune system etc., so consider what's best in the long run, rather than what tastes best for 5 minutes. Choosing healthier foods with similar flavors can be helpful in getting the best of both worlds. Next time you think of having fried rice, consider making veggie quinoa "fried rice!"
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