The perfect diet

It can be difficult to find a balance with health and indulgence. Which is why so many people strive to find a diet that is tried and true, as well as simple to follow. Chances are, you’ve heard of a friend of a friend or know someone who lost weight on such and such diet and when you try it, it doesn’t work.

This is a very disappointing and deflating experience.

Why do so many people struggle to find a diet that works for them? One very simple answer is that maybe they shouldn’t be dieting at all. The word “diet” can be simply defined as the way a person eats. It can also be defined as a structured eating regimen that is meant to help a person lose weight. Most people associate the word with the latter definition. However, if you want to lose weight, dieting is probably not the answer.

I once heard a physician say the best diet is one that you can stick with. This is a powerful statement because it encourages a person to think about what that is for him or her. There is no blanket “perfect diet” that fits all people. Some people might find that a structured diet plan works for them, that’s their perfect diet. Other people may not be able to adhere to very specific guidelines, so that kind of diet won’t work for them.

The best way to lose weight and keep it off, is small changes. Start taking control of portions and cut them back little by little. Instead of eating two cups of pasta, start with one and three quarters, wait ten minutes to determine if you are still hungry. Eat slowly, it takes time for your brain to catch up with your body. If you eat fast, you’re going to overeat because you have eaten more than you need to by the time you realize you are full. Keep a food journal, it holds you accountable for the amounts you are eating. Many people don’t want to fess up to the little things here and there, but writing it down creates some accountability.

There is no such thing as a perfect diet. There is no magic weight loss cure. Find something that works for you and do that. It’s also okay to need some help with your health so speak with a dietitian or physician to help get you on track. Most importantly, don’t get discouraged. Remember you are human, not a robot, you can’t just reprogram your brain. Important changes take time.

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Lenna Ahlers is a dietitian in skilled nursing and a graduate of the University of Idaho Dietetics Program.