Many of us have learned unhealthy habits from years of fad dieting and exposure to processed foods. It’s time for a great diet reset. A wellness expert shares eight principles to help you unlearn what doesn’t work and build a foundation for a healthy future.
- Unlearn Restriction, Learn Prioritization. Stop thinking about what to cut out. Instead, learn to prioritize whole, minimally processed foods. Let them fill your plate and naturally crowd out the less healthy options.
- Unlearn Calorie Counting, Learn Smart Sequencing. Forget obsessing over numbers. Learn the “smart eating order” to naturally regulate your body’s response to food.
- Unlearn “All or Nothing,” Learn Moderation. The idea that one “cheat meal” ruins everything is a toxic diet-culture myth. Learn the art of portion control and enjoy all foods in moderation.
- Unlearn “Protein is Meat,” Learn Protein Diversity. Many of us were taught that meat is the primary source of protein. Learn to embrace the power and diversity of plant-based proteins like lentils, beans, and seeds.
- Unlearn Convenience Culture, Learn Seasonal Eating. We’re used to getting any food at any time. Learn to appreciate the superior taste and nutrition of local, seasonal produce.
- Unlearn “Disposable,” Learn “Resourceful.” In our disposable culture, throwing away food is common. Learn the valuable and satisfying skill of reducing food waste by repurposing leftovers.
- Unlearn Sugary Cravings, Learn to Love Water. Our palates have been trained to expect intense sweetness. Learn to appreciate the clean, refreshing taste of pure water as your primary hydrator.
- Unlearn “Carb-Phobia,” Learn Balanced Plates. Carbs are not the enemy. Learn to build a balanced plate where complex, high-fiber carbohydrates play a healthy role alongside protein and plenty of vegetables.
