Solid Ground

I was reminded this week that one size does not fit all when it comes to behavior change and improving food choices.  We are all so unique…it just makes sense that one process and one collection of foods would not equal weight loss or gain for everyone. I love it!  People are wonderfully intricate and beautiful puzzles. 

As a Registered Dietitian it is part of my job to get to know the folks I work with, get to know things they have tried, things they like, things they dislike, their attitudes toward foods and diets, and so much more!  Doing this helps me to provide the most effective motivation and education for that person. 

Y’all, it is okay if what worked for [insert name] didn’t work for you.  It is okay if you do not like some foods that are great for you (all I ask is that you have given them a chance).  Do not get me wrong, there is a great nutrition foundation that is applicable for most people, but when it comes to how that foundation is built upon, well, you can have fun and tailor it to you.  Be open to new strategies and new foods that might make more sense for you versus feeling pressured to mimic someone else’s food or dieting style to succeed.

I support teaching/learning nutrition basics because then you have the tools to build a custom food intake atop a great nutrition foundation.  Food ideas and menus are helpful supplemental tools, but don’t you want to have the power to build your own nutritious menus? 

Per usual, my way is not the fast, easy, and convenient way, but it is the lasting way.

I hope you’re inspired to quit comparing yourself to weight loss/diet successes or failures of others, inspired to be open to more than what you already know, and inspired to really learn the nutrition basics to arm yourself with the power to create your own unique nutritious masterpiece.

7 more daily goals to celebrate National Nutrition Month® and work on nutrition basics:

March 16: Choose “whole” grains today for more fiber and nutritious filling power.
March 17: Be intentionally active.  Take the stairs, park further away, take stretch breaks at work.
March 18: Check your labels for Trans fats (“hydrogenated oil”)…don’t eat it.
March 19: Basic = God loves you! Believe it! Celebrate it!
March 20: Eat the rainbow…no not skittles.  Did you get green, red, orange/yellow, blue/purple, and white fruits and veggies this week?
March 21: Give a smile to others when you cross paths (whether you know them or not) J.
March 22: Hydrate…have water with you all day and avoid those sugary drinks.