Why Most New Year's Nutrition Resolutions Fail - And What We Can Learn From Them
Hey everyone! As we have kicked off, and are a week into the new year, it's no secret that many of us are setting big goals. But let’s be real for a second – more often than not, these resolutions don’t stick. So, let’s talk about why most New Year's nutrition resolutions tend to fall flat and what we can learn from these missteps. Here are just a few.
1. The All-or-Nothing Mindset It’s a classic January move – going from zero to a hundred on the fitness scale. But this drastic change is like jumping into deep waters without knowing how to swim. Why does this approach flop? Because it’s about restriction, not sustainable change. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. You may have a lofty goal, but setting up extreme means to get there isn’t the answer. Establish small actions consistently and layer more in as those become your foundation. Big goals are sustainably achieved through many small actions.
2. Misjudging Portions: We often think, “If it’s healthy, I can have as much as I want,” right? But even with healthy foods, overdoing it is easy. This pitfall leads to unintended calorie overloads. Calories are calories, no matter where they come from. And based upon the evidence, we tend to underestimate how much we eat by 50%. Be aware, even if you are only eating “healthy” foods.
3. Stuck in a Food Rut?: Variety isn’t just the spice of life; it’s also key for a health and well-being. Sticking to the same old salad can lead to nutrient deficiencies and, frankly, boredom. Yes, you may lose weight. But, weight loss and health don’t always go hand in hand. The lesson? Mix it up. Different foods bring different nutrients and keep things interesting.
4. Patience is a virtue: This one pertains back to number ONE. When progress doesn’t happen overnight, disappointment can set in and your goals fall by the wayside. The reality check? Sustainable change takes time. Aim for realistic, gradual improvements. And for god’s sake, BE PATIENT. (Lasting change will take more than a few weeks.)
5. Choose your own path: Many times we try to use the popular diet or exercise of the time. Or, we try to do what our friends or other gym members do because it worked for them. This can be counterproductive because this path, though it worked for someone else, may not be right for your goals or lifestyle. And, if you find yourself on a path that may not be working, don’t be afraid to pivot and go a different direction.
So, what's the big picture? Understanding these common pitfalls can be the first step to making better, more sustainable nutrition and exercise choices. It's not about being perfect from day one; it's about learning and growing along the way. In other words, don’t let perfection get in the way of progress. Here's to a more realistic, achievable path to health in the new year!
As always,
GIVE YOUR BODY WHAT IT NEEDS, WHEN IT NEEDS IT.
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