Are you searching for the most optimal diet to lose weight, minimize symptoms, increase energy, etc? We have out suggestions, yet first let’s define what a diet is.
“Diet: the kinds of food that a person, animal, or community habitually eats.”
This doesn’t have to be restricted to certain foods if you don’t want it to. One day your diet can be eggs, chicken sausage, and avocado at breakfast, a protein shake and apple at lunch, and a steak, and broccoli and cauliflower for dinner. Another day may be a fat boosted coffee, and eating out to celebrate your birthday with a burger, veggies and fries. And it looks different for everyone. If we jump from diet to diet, we tend to get bored, expect certain results that you may not get, and there tends to be a finish line – then what do you do?
This is where it can feel confusing and overwhelming. Figuring out what “diet” or food is right for me? How much, what kinds, what time of day, etc? And then if you’re experiencing specific health symptoms should I try a specific elimination diet or protocol – there’s paleo, AIP, keto, low FODMAPS, low histamine, low sulfur, and the list goes on. Woah. We get it, we’ve been there. We’ve tried them all and have advice.
When it comes to a “diet”, we have to work on a personal level to determine what is going to work best for you. If not working with a functional medical practitioner or nutrition coach, the first thing you can do is to start journaling your food and daily symptoms. Take note of when you feel great, take note of when you feel any discomfort: low energy, GI stress, poor sleep, no hunger, extreme hunger, cravings, etc. When you experience these, notice any common denominators when it comes to certain foods/meals, food timing, portion size, when you eat out, the order in which you eat the food (carbs, proteins, fats), etc.
Do the same for when you feel your best. What went in to that feeling. What did you do the past 24 hours? Or for some, the past few days? Better sleep? Slowing down? Less snacking? More protein? Less eating out? Different carb/fat portions? The list goes on.
At the end of the day, if you’re not dealing with any specific health issues and want to focus on optimal health and body composition, first and foremost prioritize a variety of whole foods, quality protein at every meal, and then minimize seed oils, sugar, and alcohol. Oh, and get some quality sleep, move your body, and stay hydrated with proper electrolytes and clean water!
If you want more personalized help so you can start living your best life, let us see if we can help! Book a free clarity call at your convenience.
