Health is important, and eating foods with more nutrition is the best for our body. So how can we learn to love those foods more, when ultra-processed foods have been made to be so tasty that that’s all that we crave. It's definitely possible to learn to love healthier foods! It's all about retraining your taste buds and changing your mindset. Here's how you can do it.
Start Small and Be Patient
Change is difficult, no matter what, and the more we try to change at once, the more difficult it becomes. So we have to start small. Overhauling our entire diet overnight can be overwhelming, and then we’re likely to have setbacks. Focus on making small, manageable changes. For example, get into the habit of eating breakfast, swap out your sugary cool drink for water, or add a side salad to your meal. The key is consistency. It takes 1-2 weeks for your taste buds to adjust. Once one habit has become ingrained, add another. Be patient with yourself. The goal is health, not fast weight loss.
Preparation is Key
When the right foods are around you, you will go for them when you get hungry. Stock up your kitchen and office with fruit, nuts, yoghurt, crackers, peanut butter, etc so that you’ve always got something on hand, and prep meals in advance to make it easier when you are short on time. Even when working from home, pack yourself a lunchbox so that the meals are ready when it’s time to eat.
Don’t Restrict Yourself
All foods can be part of a healthy meal plan. Completely banning your favourite (less healthy) foods can lead to cravings and feelings of deprivation. Let yourself have the occasional treats in moderation.
Seek Support
We are here to help! A dietician will help guide your way. They will personalise your plan to fit into your lifestyle, ensure that your body is getting all it needs, and support you in the process of change. You can also find a friend who is on the same journey to help keep you on track.
Remember, it’s a journey, not a race. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your successes, and don't get discouraged by occasional slip-ups. With time and effort, you can learn to love healthy foods and enjoy all the benefits they have to offer.