by Eliza Sterling

The ongoing pandemic has brought our diet, exercise routines, and body image anxieties into sharp focus. A study conducted by The Royal Society for Public Health indicates that 47% of us have increased our screen time since lockdown started. This regular exposure to social media and its usually unrealistic standards can escalate body issues, causing psychological stress. According to Kantar’s research, 38% of us are almost always on a diet, suggesting a troubling obsession with achieving the ideal weight. Striking a healthy balance can be challenging amid these societal pressures. However, this piece will help you reframe your ideas about healthy eating and assist you in achieving your health goals.

Highlight the Positives in Eating

Eating should be a delightful experience. If we obsessively focus on what we should avoid eating, we inevitably spoil the enjoyment of our meals. Instead, consider what you can add to your food to boost the intake of essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber. As suggested by naturopathic nutrition coach, Jessica, batch cooking nutrient-rich meals provide ready to eat healthy options throughout the week. Prepare soups, stews, and curries rich in vegetables, herbs, and spices and freeze them in portions.

Benefit from the Internet Constructively

Restricting yourself to a limited variety of food in the name of calorie counting can make your meals dull and monotonous. Fortunately, online resources can help you discover exciting, healthy recipes and eating habits. Use these tools to re-energize your meals and even start a collection of nutritious recipes that you find online.

Embrace the Power of the Pen

Invest in a wellness journal to document your nutrition targets. Recording your objectives helps you identify attainable goals and track your progress, celebrating each achievement no matter how small. Jessica suggests that writing down how certain foods make you feel can guide you toward healthier choices instinctively, rather than feeling obligated by a diet regime.

Let Go of Weight Scale Obsession

Resisting the temptation to step onto scales and, instead, prioritizing a balanced, colorful, and diverse diet is a healthier approach to managing weight. Instead of focusing solely on your weight, concentrate on maintaining a nutritious, balanced diet daily.

Revel in Your Food

Devoting time and love into preparing healthy meals at home promotes a healthier relationship with food. Consider your mealtimes as special and give them the undivided attention they deserve. Try introducing a new ingredient to your meals each week. As research shows, certain foods can stimulate happiness, and isn’t that a delightful bonus?

balanced diet, healthy eating, mental health, body image anxieties, screen time, social media, weight management