Just Eat: Ditch Diet Fads and Just Eat Healthy

Weight Watchers, the no-carb diet, the Atkins diet, juicing, the Paleo diet- the list goes on and on. There are so many types of diets out there. How does one know which one is right for his or her body?

In my opinion, they should all be ditched.

I’m not saying that everyone should rebel against diets and eat unhealthily (Although, it would be nice to eat unlimited amounts of Nutella). But rather, ditch the strict diets and focus on foods that make you happy and healthy, without feeling bad about having a pastry at an event or having a drink at happy hour.

Everybody wants to feel comfortable with their body and it is certainly easier for some than it is for others. I like to eat foods that make me comfortable with my body, provide me with good health, and make me happy- This includes anything from kale to dark chocolate.

Most people who are on restricted diets often give them up after a few months or even weeks. Simple healthy eating and moderation can easily be a lifestyle that lasts forever.

I’m not going to tell you what to eat and what not to eat, but instead give you insight on how you can go about just eating healthy.

First, change your mindset about eating. By this I mean that eating should not always be associated with your emotions. For example, if I am having a rough day, my mind often craves something that is going to comfort me- usually something sweet.

Try to start making these associations with good-for-you foods so that the next time you have a tough day at work, you

won’t come home and finish a whole box of chocolates. You will realize that your mind is playing tricks on you and will settle on something healthier.

Next, start with small gradual changes in your eating habits. It may not be easy for you to eat healthy, whole foods all the time. Maybe start by eating them at one meal a day and slowly start to add them into all of your daily meals.

Small changes can go a long way. Add colorful vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to your meals, but don’t feel bad if you have a meal without them. Sometimes, I just really want a good dish of pasta and I don’t feel badly about it.

Lastly, don’t be hard on yourself. I have seen people get so engulfed in the diet fad that they end up harming their bodies. Eating healthy should not be impairing or frustrating. It should be something you can have fun with. Make your plate presentations pretty, eat dessert, and make yourself a killer cocktail.

Stop thinking about which diet will work best for you. Love your body, be happy, and just eat.

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