This is a method that I truly believe in!
In my years as a Registered Dietitian, I have learned that BALANCE is the most sustainable approach to feel and look your best long-term. Restricting yourself from certain foods and following fad diets may give you a quick, temporary fix; however, you only have so much willpower to say “no thank you” to your favorite foods. Eventually, you will cave in and over-indulge; this is when weight cycling happens. Therefore, to achieve long-term, sustainable results it is important to strive for BALANCE. By eating well-balanced meals, we can be satisfied and energized throughout the day; control cravings; regulate our blood sugars; keep our metabolism elevated; and promote overall good health.
What is a balanced meal? This is a balanced plate composed of vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates (as shown in the picture above).
Vegetables are full of water, fiber, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, antioxidants, and more! When creating a balanced meal, fill at least half of your plate with your favorite type of veggies. For an added bonus choose colorful vegetables.
Protein is the building block in our body and helps form lean muscle. When creating a balanced meal, fill up a quarter of your plate with protein, whether it is animal- or plant-based.
Carbohydrates provide our cells with direct energy. Here, I put an emphasis on whole grains as they have a high fiber content, which slows down digestion, regulates blood sugar, reduces risk of chronic diseases, eases bowel movements.
When you eat a balanced meal, you will feel satisfied! Satisfaction is important as it will allow your body to switch off hunger signals and help you move on with your day, without searching for that cookie or grabbing that bag of chips.
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