Have you ever wondered what the “best” diet is to live a healthy lifestyle? You’ve probably heard of fad diets and eating patterns like keto, the Mediterranean diet, low-carb, low-fat, etc. with influencers on social media sharing why their...
Have you ever wondered what the “best” diet is to live a healthy lifestyle? You’ve probably heard of fad diets and eating patterns like keto, the Mediterranean diet, low-carb, low-fat, etc. with influencers on social media sharing why their diet choice is the “best.” I recently wrapped up a 9-month journey of earning my nutrition coaching certification, and I’ve learned a lot – about nutrition, lifestyle, and overall wellness. Here are some of my main takeaways, including what the “best” diet really is.
Nutrition is personal
One of the key themes reiterated in my studies was that nutrition is deeply personal. Each of us are individuals with our own unique circumstances, schedules, challenges, etc. The trick to a healthy lifestyle is finding ways to sustainably incorporate more nutrient-dense, whole foods into our daily routines and commitments. The way a single mom of two eats and focuses on nutrition is most likely going to look different from a single person living in their 20s with no dependents and a little more time on their hands.
On top of that, many people also choose to eat a certain way based on personal or cultural preferences. Just because one person chooses to follow a vegan diet does not mean that we all need to and vice versa. You should feel empowered to make purchasing decisions in the grocery store that benefit your family and align with your goals, values, and preferences!
Tip: Find what works for you! How can you sustainably incorporate more nutrient-dense, whole foods into your diet while accounting for lifestyle factors like daily routines and commitment?
Check out our Meat Matters Guide to learn more about the importance of meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood in a balanced diet.
Most people need more protein in their diets
Did you know most people could benefit from a little extra protein in their diets? Oftentimes, general daily protein recommendations are focused on simply preventing malnutrition. You might need to be eating a bit more to feel and function your best though! As registered dietitian Diana Rodgers puts it, “There’s a difference between surviving and thriving.”
Lean protein plays a vital role in how we feel and perform. It can help improve satiety and appetite management, so you feel fuller longer, body composition, performance, recovery, and overall health. So, not eating enough can have a big impact on your daily life!
Tip: Struggling to eat enough protein? Try adding at least one serving to each meal! Look for cuts with “loin” and “chop” in the name for leaner options.
Fruits and vegetables are important
We’ve all probably heard the term “plant-based” thrown around, but did you know you don’t have to cut meat, dairy, poultry, and eggs out of your diet to eat plant-based? If you’re trying to eat more fruits and vegetables, it doesn’t mean you have to get rid of your favorite proteins. Likewise, if you’re trying to increase your protein intake, you shouldn’t cut back on the amount of fruits and veggies you’re eating! Fruits and vegetables (and other sources of fiber) provide several great benefits to our health AND can provide more volume to our meals so we feel satiated.
Tip: Trying to eat more fiber during the day? Play around with vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds that you enjoy to find ways to increase your daily intake!
Bottom line: there is no “best” diet!
“Good” nutrition is not what we think or assume but instead is based on strong research – and the research shows that there really isn’t a “best” diet that will work for everyone in every circumstance. The key is simply to find ways to add in some variety of nutrient-dense, whole foods. It doesn’t have to be complicated or entail a long list of rules to follow or foods to cut out. Have fun with trying new foods and recipes and nourishing your body along the way!
All posts are the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the view of the Animal Ag Alliance.
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