How much better would life be if you discovered a diet plan that not only worked but that you could easily stick with?
Why is it so difficult to find a nutrition plan that works? With all the information at our finger tips, you’d think the “secret” diet plan would just be one Google away. I guess too much information can be as bad as too little.
The 5 problems with most nutrition plans:
- Overly complex – We live in a busy world. While it will take some work and effort, many diet plans require hours of cooking and planning. They’re just not realistic. Whether it’s weighing the food, excessive nutrient counting, or “carb cycling,” you won’t be able to maintain it. This is a clearly problem if you are on a quest for long term health and fitness.
- Flawed technology – If I asked you to make ice cubes by boiling water, would you be able to? What if you tried really hard? Of course not. It’s an ineffective technology. Many diets are no different. High carb/low fat diets pose some problems and they don’t work for many people. And this brings me to problem # 3.
- One Size Fits All – Many “solutions” try to fit you into their box which is backwards. The plan should fit to you. This is especially true when it comes to something as individualized as diet and nutrition. The truth is we all have unique likes and dislikes. What’s more….everyone responds differently to different nutrients. While super low carb might be ideal for one person it might leave another feeling drained and miserable.
- Too Boring – I’m a firm believer that life is meant to be enjoyed. And this includes the simple pleasure of eating. It’s sad that so many people miss out on this because of the belief that healthy and delicious food are mutually exclusive. This is besides the fact that you’ll never stick with something you don’t enjoy. I mean, c’mon how much grilled chicken can you eat before you feel like you’re gonna grow feathers!?!
- No Accountability – This is by far the biggest problem with most nutrition plans. Many of us fail to be consistent due to a lack of accountability. Once some solid systems to keep you on track are implemented, magic happens. We all need a little kick in the pants now and again and this is why simply trying to follow a diet from a sheet of paper doesn’t work.
Now that we’ve covered the usual pitfalls of most nutrition plans, it’s time to discuss the qualities of an effective program. Wouldn’t it be great if you could finally get on a program that meets ALL of these criteria?
- Simple – Anyone could follow it. Don’t mistake this for easy. To achieve results that most people don’t you will need to do some things that most people won’t (even though they’re simple).
- Produces Results – Isn’t that what you want after all? To look and feel better? To experience positive physical change?
- Specific to you – You can eat the foods YOU enjoy and do what works for your body type.
- Enjoyable – You’ll actually look forward to your meals. Whether you’re at home, entertaining friends, or dining out, you’ll have a plan that you like.
- Constantly motivated – You’ll have the support you need. Life can get tough and you need a support system to help you through the good and bad times.
Billy Hofacker B.S., CSCS, FMS LEVEL 1