I am a huge fan of credibility.
I was working with my fitness coach on an approach to my plan and I mentioned that I track my food. Even though my meals are consistent, I weigh and enter my intake. He asked if it was an accountability exercise and I agreed that it was mainly for accountability.
I reflected on my why when it comes to tracking my intake. I want to be mindful, and I want to make healthy choices that aren't driven over an obsessive approach to my habits. Why do I continue to track my intake more than two years into my wellness journey?
There were moments in my life that I would practically pretend I had not eaten something, as though not acknowledging it would negate it. There were times where I considered what I ate in a meal but ignored the impact of what I had decided to drink.
The truth is, I find joy in the activity of tracking every day. Food and I have developed an entirely new relationship, and I established credibility with me. I choose to maintain this approach because it serves me, my relationship with food, and satisfies my purposeful nature.
I see the buzz on social media about intuitive being the optimal approach. It seems many coaches advertise a solution that does not "require" tracking. As a coach, how you choose to reach your wellness goals will be specific to you. How, and if, you track and measure your intake is no exception.
In the realm of dieting and nutrition, there are two prevalent approaches to consider: tracking your food meticulously or practicing intuitive eating. Each offers its own perspective on how we approach meals and our relationship with food.
Tracking Your Food: Benefits and Drawbacks
Tracking your food is a method where you track everything you eat and drink. Also referred to as 'calorie counting' or 'macro tracking', most who choose this method use an app to make it easier, like MyFitnessPal. You can also journal your meals to log calories and macronutrients consumed throughout the day. The journal option can be great for someone who is temporarily tracking for a baseline to establish goals.
Benefits of Tracking Your Food:
Precision: Calorie tracking provides a precise understanding of your food intake, helping you manage weight and achieve specific health goals.
Accountability: It holds you accountable for what you eat, making you more aware of your choices.
Goal-Oriented: This method will be ideal for those with specific fitness or weight goals, as it allows you to fine tune your nutrition plan.
Drawbacks of Tracking Your Food:
Obsession: It can lead to an unhealthy obsession with numbers and can contribute to disordered eating habits.
Stress: Constantly monitoring and calculating food intake can lead to stress and anxiety around mealtimes.
Not Sustainable for Everyone: It can be time-consuming and may not be suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed approach to eating.
Intuitive Eating: Listening to Your Body
Intuitive eating, on the other hand, is all about listening to your body's hunger and fullness cues and making food choices based on what your body truly craves. It's about honoring your hunger and respecting your fullness, rather than following strict dietary rules.
Benefits of Intuitive Eating
No Food Restrictions: It promotes a healthy relationship with food by eliminating the concept of "good" and "bad" foods. This will help alleviate the likelihood of binge eating.
Less Stress: Intuitive eating can alleviate food-related stress and anxiety, as there are no rigid rules to follow.
Sustainability: It's a sustainable approach to eating, as it aligns with your body's natural cues, and it can be practiced for a lifetime.
Drawbacks of Intuitive Eating
Lack of Structure: Some individuals may struggle with the lack of structure and guidance, especially if they have specific health or fitness goals.
Potential for Overeating: Without any rules, there is a possibility of overeating or not getting the necessary nutrients, which could impact health.
Potential for Justification: This approach may inadvertently perpetuate a pattern of making less-than-ideal food choices.
Coach's Corner
While tracking your food and intuitive eating have their pros and cons, it is essential to find a balance that works for you.
Combination Approach: Consider a hybrid approach where you occasionally track your food to gain awareness and then practice intuitive eating for most of your meals.
Mindful Eating: Regardless of your chosen method, always focus on mindful eating -- paying attention to the taste, texture, and experience of your food.
Consult a Professional: Seek guidance from a registered dietician or nutritionist who can help you find the right approach for your specific needs.
In the debate between tracking your food and intuitive eating, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The key is to develop a healthy relationship with food that aligns with your goals and makes you feel good physically and mentally. Remember that both approaches have their merits, and it's entirely possible to find balance that suits your unique needs. The path to a healthy diet is one that respects your body, your health, and your preferences.
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