I see this quite often in my health coaching practice. It is common for people to think that when they skip a meal, they are ‘saving’ calories. What happens though is it backfires!
By mid afternoon or early evening, you are starving, and then you feel like you have no ‘willpower’ as you eat anything in site. Our bodies need fuel in the form of food to function. When you deprive your body of food, it screams out for what it needs – FOOD. Willpower does not do it. You end up overeating and then end up feeling guilty.
The lesson here: Skipping meals sets you up for failure and feeling guilty.
Aim to Eat three balanced meals a day and when needed, healthy snacks in between your meals. You will notice you get through the day with a more constant flow of energy. When you take the time to plan your meals for the day, you can make healthier food and snack choices. It is much easier to make unhealthy choices when you need to eat something NOW and you just grab the closest thing you can find.
This week, try planning your meals ahead of time. If this task seems too daunting, start with 2-3 days at a time. Be sure to not skip meals. Notice how you end up eating fewer calories during the day and most of all, how much better you feel.
What can you do this week to be sure you don’t skip meals?
Wishing you all the best,
Yasmine Defouni, Certified Holistic Health Coach
P.S. Here is a Sample Meal Plan from my upcoming “Jumpstart To A Healthier You” clean eating program that you can use as guidance for this week.
DOWNLOAD MEAL PLAN – PDF
Disclaimer: My recipes and suggestions are what have served me well and made me feel my best. This information is for general purposes only. It is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical conditions. You should seek the care of your doctor before starting a new exercise routine or before changing other dietary or lifestyle habits. A health coach is not a licensed nutritionist, registered dietician or medical professional