Is what we weigh truly an indication of how healthy we are, or are we obsessing over it unnecessarily? Thats the topic I’ll be exploring in this weeks podcast.
Tied to the scales
At this time of year I am frequently reminded how the diet industry has created a weight monster in us all. We associate weight with happiness and health, but is that really the case?
The diet industry has rammed it into us that the number on the scales is the most important. And that by denying ourselves certain foods we can achieve that number, feel happier and be healthier.
Denial doesn’t work – your body needs food!
Calorific measure is just not enough. Our bodies do AMAZING things, and they need energy to be able to do those things and energy comes from nutrients and calories. For example, we have been told to restrict fat for so many years and yet we need fat to make hormones. Listen to podcast episode 61.
Restricting calories and focussing on calorie content is counter intuitive, what we need to focus on is upping nutrients, ensuring we are eating a strong well balanced diet. Your body needs food, your gut will send messages to your brain saying ‘feed me I’m hungry’ – What it means is ‘I need those extra nutrients’ or ‘I’m low on Vitamin C’.
Stop making weight your goal
Stop thinking about the ‘goal’ weight and start thinking about how healthy you want to feel, because when you feel healthy you will find that you are less bothered about what the scales are saying. You will have more energy and vitality and, if you need to, you will lose weight. It’s a natural balance between being well fed and well nourished.
Be honest – would you be happy being half a stone heavier than your ‘goal’ if you were healthier? If you had more energy?
Tips for eating for your Health:
- Cook fresh food
- Eat more nuts & seeds
- Eat more variety
- Plan your meals
- Don’t weigh yourself!
My links
Are you a slave to the scales? Has this episode changed how you think? I’d love to know!
