Cheat-Proof Your Diet

rnIf you have ever been on a diet, did you have a "cheat" day? Cheat days are something that I see a lot of people who are trying to lose weight use as a way to keep them on track. The problem with cheat days is that those cheat “days” turn into a full blown eating frenzy because dieting leaves people feeling deprived. This is just one of the reasons that I don't advocate dieting. A better approach to weight loss and weight maintenance is to focus on whole foods that are naturally nutritional and more satisfying. When I work with clients around weight loss and weight maintenance, I use a holistic approach. I take into consideration the types of food a person is eating, as well as other aspects in a person’s life that may be driving them to overeat or may be causing cravings; things like stress, emotional eating, and not enough sleep, to name a few. There are so many things that affect what and why we eat, and that needs to be looked at as a whole. When it comes to weight loss, there's no such thing as a quick fix or a one-size-fits -all approach. The Diet AlteRNative approach that I use with my clients is NOT a diet and there is no deprivation, so there's no need for a cheat day. The focus is on eating foods that give you energy, and eating in a way that is sustainable. Dieting just doesn't make sense--study after study shows that anyone can go on a diet and lose weight; but once people return to their old behaviors, they put all of the weight back on. Keep in mind that food is to be enjoyed. I don’t advocate deprivation! If it's chocolate you want, you can learn how to make a healthy choice, like a few pieces of quality dark chocolate--which is much more satisfying and better for you than the milk chocolate candies found at the local convenience store. It all comes down to knowing what works for YOU...your unique body and your unique lifestyle. Working with a Health and Wellness Coach, you learn simple practical ways to change your behaviors and make the healthiest choices for you. This approach sets you up for success and sustainable behaviors.rnIf there were a magic way to lose weight that didn't require any lifestyle changes, there wouldn't be a new diet book out every week!