Everyone is different when it comes to nutritional requirements, and your intake will depend a lot on what you’re trying to achieve. I’m not a nutritionist by any means, so what I do won’t necessarily suit the person next to me. I don’t count calories, macros or track my intake but I recognise the value to those who do. Here’s a few tips that have helped me, and might help you.
- Preparation is key.
This sounds cliche but it’s absolutely true. As someone who has a sweet tooth and eats regularly, if I haven’t prepared, I’ll reach for the nearest thing in whatever size it comes. If I have prepared, it means the food I reach for is something that keeps me satisfied and on track. Preparation also helps you manage portion size. For example, a serve of almonds in a small container for each day at work is better then taking the whole bag of almonds to work with you. It’s about making it easy as possible for yourself.
- Think of your favourite vegetable (mine is broccoli, I’m obsessed!)
Next time you think ‘I’m hungry’ ask yourself ‘Would I want a bowl of broccoli?/*insert fave vegetable here*’ If the answer is yes, you probably are genuinely hungry and you should have something to eat. If the answer is no, it’s likely you’re not actually hungry. When you answer no, try having a sip of water or a cup of tea instead.
- Enjoy the times you do eat food that is considered ‘bad for you’.
The guilt associated with eating makes the experience unenjoyable, so if you do decide to have some chocolate, have it, and enjoy it!