Everything in moderation, sugar free, fat free… is it just us, or are there a lot of different opinions out there on what to eat to feel good? It can be kinda confusing, so what advice should you listen to?
Balance is best!
Basically, the best thing to do is have a balance — try to eat a bit of everything. This includes veggies, fruits, grains, protein (e.g. meat, eggs, beans, tofu) and dairy. Try to eat as much fresh food as you can, rather than processed stuff.
So, instead of reaching for a packet of chips for a snack, try something else like rice cakes or a piece of fruit, or switch soft drink for water. But letting yourself enjoy food and sweet treats is also important! Don’t shame yourself for diving into a box of chocolates. Just remember moderation is key.
If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, the same rules apply! Eating a plant-based diet is incredibly healthy and great for the planet, but it’s just as important to keep your diet balanced. Technically you could follow a vegan diet while eating vegan chocolate all day, but your body is definitely not going to like that! Check out this article for some great tips on how to eat a healthy vegetarian or vegan diet.
Learn about how a diverse and balanced diet is good for your gut and brain health in these videos!
Is it really worth the fuss? Sure is:
The benefits of skipping processed food and filling up on your own fresh creations are pretty sweet:
- Improves your immune system to prevent sickness
- Gives you energy – food is fuel for your body and mind!
- improves overall happiness
- Helps you glow on the inside so that you glow on the outside
Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?
Try not to skip breakfast (or any meals)
Sometimes it can be hard to fit breakfast in, especially if you’re running late. But as they say, it’s the most important meal of the day. Breakfast gives you the energy you need to tackle your morning. It might be a good idea to keep a tub of yoghurt or a muesli bar handy so you don’t have to miss out if you’re running late.
Skipping meals can be really bad for your digestion and your brain! It messes with your metabolism, hormone levels and energy. When you skip a meal it can also worsen and mimic symptoms of anxiety. So the best thing you can do for your body and brain is eat consistent and well-rounded meals.
This TikTok by Dr Kirren Schnack details how your brain reacts to a lack of food:
@drkirren Do you skip meals? What happens to your anxiety symptoms when you don’t eat as well? Anxiety can suppress appetite, making it difficult to eat. However, it’s important to find simple and palatable foods to prevent the lack of food from worsening anxiety symptoms. Prioritizing nourishment, even with small portions, can help stabilize the mind and body and prevent anxiety from worsening. 📚Discover how you can conquer anxiety problems in my new book “Ten Times Calmer.” This comprehensive practical guide details the exact strategies I use in my clinical practice to help my patients. I’ve carefully redesigned these techniques for self-help, so you can experience transformative changes too. #anxiety #anxietysymptoms #mentalhealth ♬ Emotional Piano Instrumental In E Minor – Tom Bailey Backing Tracks
What about gluten free, dairy free and wheat free?
You really only need to eat these foods if you have a food intolerance or allergy. It won’t hurt to eat them, but they are usually more expensive and some also contain more sugar so may not be better for you in the long run. If you find certain foods upset your tummy, speak to your doctor or a naturopath about food intolerances and how to deal with them.
Eating trends?
We don’t recommend fad diets, which make promises about weight loss and other health benefits but aren’t backed by any solid science. Fad diets don’t really work and can mess with your body, so be wary of them.
Be wary of influencers trying to teach you methods of healthy eating – especially if they involve restriction or excessive monitoring. Often these influencers are not experts and they are trying to make money off your engagement with their posts or by selling you products. Tiktoks like ‘What I eat in a day’ videos can be harmful because they project unattainable or unhealthy standards.
Everyone’s body is different and everyone needs different amounts of food to keep them going through the day. It’s important to work out what works best for you so that you have lots of energy and feel great!
If you are struggling with disordered eating or need someone to talk to please reach out to people in your life like a trusted adult or school counsellor. You can also contact the Butterfly Foundation. Call their National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 or use their online chat or email.
