Why No-One Needs To Go On A Diet

Firstly I want to define the ‘D’ word and talk about it’s true meaning and what it represents.

The word ‘diet’ in the health and fitness industry is the food you consume each day. A wholesome mix of nutrient dense, good quality foods that fuel and nourish your body. Yet this word is seen on processed foods like ready meals, fizzy drinks and various other man made snacks or brands that promotes weight loss.

I believe slimming clubs and weight loss products have over-used the word so much that consumers only see definition number 3 above. The billion pound weight loss industry has managed to create so many fads, by adding the word diet on to the end, we are as a nation, totally confused.

Studies show that the average female in her lifetime goes on approximately 500 diets, yet in the eyes of health and fitness coaches, there is only 1. I would ask you to consider the type of food you’re eating on a daily basis and if it doesn’t represent point 1 and 2 in the definition above then you may want to consider the impact this may have on your longterm health.

If weight loss or fat loss is your goal, try to eat foods that are good quality and nutrient dense rather than looking at just the calorie content. Take the avocado for instance, high in monounsaturated fat (good fat) and protein. It’s fat content is 20 times higher than other fruits and contains approximately 225 calories (depending on size) yet slimming clubs warn you off these giving you a lower calorie option instead. You don’t have to be a genius to know that a natural avocado pear is going to be better for you than a bowl of cereal or sugary fruit yoghurts…. yet many people choose the lower calorie option.

You can’t go wrong with a diet of wholesome natural foods and meals made from fresh ingredients. Combine this with an active lifestyle, good sleep and frequent activities that reduce stress, like meditation and mindfulness and you’re on the right path to optimal health and longevity.