I hate the word diet. Why? Because to so many people it has a negative connotation implying you “go on” it for a while, and then you’re looking forward to “going off” it soon!
Is that what you think, too?
Instead, I prefer to call it a healthy eating plan.
But I do like this acronym – D.I.E.T. It means “Do I Eat This?” So before you eat something ask, “Do I eat this?
Or should you eat this? Are you really physically hungry? If so, then you should eat.
But if not really physically hungry, maybe you are bored, tired, lonely, frustrated, feeling insecure, etc.? If so, then physical nourishment probably isn’t the answer, and you need to address the real issue, right?
Here’s another Acronym – HALTS-B to help you remember.
Ask yourself if you are:
H – Hungry
A – Angry/anxious
L – Lonely
T – Tired
S -Stressed or Sleepy
B -Bored
Have you ever been there? I know I have. I’m not really physically hungry but am emotionally, mentally, spiritually, or relationally hungry.
I’m currently leading a group health program called Soulful Sugar Detox. And I’ve previously led a Bible study at church called “Made to Crave.” The premise is of both is what do you crave? What do you need? And are you filling your mouth with physical food when really you’re craving spiritual nourishment?
We know food was created to give us fuel and energy for our bodies, but wasn’t meant to satisfy those deep longings we desire that can only be satisfied with a relationship with the Lord. Food can fill us but cannot fulfill us.
What Can You Do?
Are you really hungry for spiritual nourishment and if so, then spend time praying or studying the Bible. If you’re craving intellectual stimulation, then sign up to take a course or class or learn a new hobby. Or if you need connection with others, then reach out to a friend or loved one and set up a coffee or lunch date. If you’re stressed, get outside or exercise or listen to music. Or seek professional counseling.
See – listening to your body means a lot of different things. God gave us a mind and heart so we can ask these deeper questions. And physical food on our plate is really secondary to our deeper hungers and desires.
So ask yourself, “What do I need right now?”
If it’s not physical hunger, then don’t eat food. It only takes a few minutes to pause and ask yourself what do you need right now. Then you can satisfy the real type of nourishment your body, mind, and soul are craving.
——————————————————————————————————————
I’m a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. I primarily help women who have fatigue, brain fog, bloating, and weight issues. Many have thyroid and autoimmune problems. We focus on nutrition and lifestyle factors to help them increase energy, thinking clearer, and being able to fit into their favorite jeans again. They do it and so can you – you just might need help from someone who’s been there herself and worked with clients – guiding, supporting, and encouraging you each step of the way. Contact me here to set up a free strategy session to see how we can work together. — Leah Cheshire, NBC-HWC
