How to Finally STOP "Diet" Confusion and START Seeing Results
Nov 11, 2024
by Corey Kissel
If you’ve found yourself jumping from keto to paleo, then trying out intermittent fasting for a week or two, only to end up worse then you started out, you’re not alone...
If the so-called "Experts" can't even agree on what healthy eating looks like, how are you supposed to figure things out for yourself?
With a constant flood of diet trends on social media, along with regular conflicting advice, it’s no wonder you’re frustrated. You’re busy, working hard, and want results without spending hours obsessing over every meal. Let’s cut through the noise and find a way forward that actually fits YOUR life.
Why the Diet Industry Is Confusing
The diet industry seems to have one thing in common: they don't agree on much. New fads pop up regularly, each claiming to be the “ultimate” way to eat. Some diets are restrictive, focusing on cutting out food groups entirely, while others are based on timing, and still others emphasize nutrient ratios. All of this has left many people feeling lost, stressed, and disappointed when results don’t come quickly or last long.
Since no two individuals are exactly alike, no two diets will work exactly the same way for everyone. Just because keto worked for your friend doesn’t mean it’s ideal for you. And this is where the frustration comes in. We’ve been led to believe that there’s only one perfect way to eat, when really, it’s more about finding what works for you while you implement time-tested principles to help you along the way.
What Actually Matters When Choosing your Nutritional Approach
Let's focus on what matters most: sustainability, flexibility, and consistency. No Nutritional Approach will work if you dread every meal or feel like you’re constantly missing out. Life is busy, and trying to follow an ultra-restrictive meal plan is only going to add stress, not results. Here are the three questions you need to ask yourself:
1. Is this Nutritional Approach realistic for my lifestyle?
You’re busy—whether with work, family, or both. Your Nutritional Approach shouldn’t feel like a second job. If your chosen plan requires meal prep that feels overwhelming or rigid restrictions that don’t align with your social life, it’s likely setting you up for burnout.
2. Does it fit my personal preferences and needs?
Forcing yourself to eat foods you hate or avoiding ones you love can quickly make eating feel like a chore. Consider your taste preferences, cultural foods, and any unique dietary needs.
3. Can I keep up with this for the long haul?
Diets that are too extreme are not only difficult to stick to but also don’t allow your body time to adjust to the changes you’re making. Instead of quick-fix plans, look for a way of eating that you can envision doing next year, not just next month.
Why “The Ultimate Diet” might not work for you the same way it did for someone else.
There is no “Ultimate” diet that works the same for everyone. But there is a Nutritional Approach that works best for you. Finding a way to eat that energizes you, makes you feel good, and helps you reach your goals is the ultimate win. And remember, your body and lifestyle demands may change over time, so being flexible is key.
A good Nutritional Approach starts by focusing on nutrient-rich, whole foods that fuel your body. If you aim to make most of your meals a mix of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, you’re already ahead of the game.
Pro Tip: The best results come when you start from replacement. Any time you try to remove something from your daily food intake that is not helping you work toward your goals, it is important to replace it with something so you don't feel restricted or focus on what's "missing". For most of us, making small, steady improvements over time creates a snowball effect that’s far more powerful (and far less stressful) than diving headfirst into a restrictive diet.
5 Steps to Create Your Ideal Nutritional Approach
Now that we’ve got the mindset covered, here’s how to turn it into action:
1. Start with One Small Change.
Instead of overhauling your entire diet, try adding one positive habit, like drinking more water, adding a serving of vegetables to each meal, or eating a protein-rich breakfast. Small, consistent changes are easier to stick to and lead to big results over time.
2. Listen to Your Body.
Pay attention to how you feel after eating certain foods. Are you energized, or do you feel sluggish? Do you feel satisfied, or are you still craving something? This feedback is valuable and can guide you toward a way of eating that makes you feel great.
3. Eat Mindfully.
Many of us eat on autopilot or while distracted, which can lead to overeating and a lack of enjoyment. Try to slow down and be present during meals. This can help you tune in to your hunger and fullness cues more effectively.
4. Balance Your Plate.
A balanced meal typically includes protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs. If you focus on these elements in every meal, you’ll feel more satisfied and less likely to crave snacks or sweets later.
5. Be Flexible.
Life can be unpredictable. Building flexibility into your diet—whether it’s a night out with friends or a family celebration—means you’re setting yourself up for success long-term. Your way of eating should support your life, not restrict it.
The Real Power of a Sustainable Diet
Your journey is about creating habits that last. A sustainable diet can help you reach your goals—whether that’s feeling more energetic, losing weight, or building strength—and it will also allow you to actually enjoy the process. When you ditch the “Ultimate Diet” mentality, you’re free to experiment, make adjustments, and find a Nutritional Approach that works for you.
No more feeling like you’re “failing” because you didn’t stick to an arbitrary rule or because one way of eating didn’t deliver instant results. You’re not chasing quick fixes; you’re building a healthier, happier lifestyle.
So, if you’re tired of diet confusion and ready to find a way of eating that works for your life, give yourself permission to make this journey about you—your needs, your preferences, and your goals. Be patient with yourself, and know that with a sustainable approach, results will come.
Ready to break free from all of the diet confusion? You’re not alone, and you’ve got this!
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