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This week, we’re focusing on what we can add to our diet to make it less stressful, more enjoyable, and way more sustainable. Sound too good to be true? Stick with me, because this approach could change the way you think about eating for good!
Most weight loss diets are built on the idea of restricting how much you eat or eliminating foods you love. Pair that with the pressure of trying new, unfamiliar foods or ones you’re not excited about, and it’s no wonder meal times can become a major source of stress. When food starts feeling like a chore, it’s harder to stick with those changes for long enough to see lasting results.
Instead of focusing on what you can’t have, let’s shift the mindset to what you can add to improve your diet. This is what we like to call the “Principle of Subtraction by Addition.” It’s all about incorporating healthier options in a way that feels natural, enjoyable, and sustainable.
Adding more veggies to your meals is a simple yet effective way to balance your nutrition without sacrificing the foods you enjoy. The increased volume gives you more to chew and helps you feel satisfied, and because those veggies are packed with nutrients and lower in calories, you may find yourself feeling fuller on fewer calories, helping you stay aligned with your health and weight loss goals.
Here’s how it works: Instead of thinking that eating out means you’re “off-plan,” think of it as an opportunity to give yourself a break while still staying on track. For example, you can still enjoy that taco bowl by ordering it with a leafy green base, alongside the usual toppings you love. Now, you’re adding more veggies into the mix without dramatically changing the calories, so you can feel satisfied and successful. More leafy greens means more volume on your plate, which helps you feel fuller, but because vegetables are nutrient-dense rather than calorie-dense, you’re able to stay in line with your weight goals while still enjoying the meal.
Our relationship with food is just as important as the food itself. The goal is to create a positive and sustainable relationship with what you eat, and adding healthier options into your meals can make this process much easier. When you focus on adding nourishing foods you enjoy, you’ll find it’s easier to stick with your plan and make lasting changes.
Want to start adding healthier options to your meals but don’t know where to begin? We’ve got nutrition coaches ready to help you brainstorm and come up with a plan that works for you!
