Long-Term Sustainable Eating Patterns

The phrase “sustainable eating” is usually used to describe regenerative agricultural practices that are not harmful to the environment. At Wise Mind Nutrition, we recognize the importance of eating in ways that support environmental health. We also recognize the importance of eating in ways that support mental health, so we use the term “sustainable eating” to describe eating in a way you can sustain over long periods. 

The main challenge with many nutrition interventions is their lack of sustainability over time. Attempts to make unsustainable changes often result in individuals reverting to old habits, sometimes even worsening their initial state. Diets, in particular, frequently lead individuals back to familiar patterns and, in some cases, even trigger binge eating—a detrimental outcome. 

Embarking on a journey towards sustainable eating patterns is not just about following a set of rules; it's a commitment to principles you choose along the way, which can also evolve as your relationship with foods evolves. In this blog, we'll explore the concept of sustainable eating, emphasizing the importance of personalization, flexibility, and long-term adherence. 

Let's delve into the fundamental principles that form the foundation of a nourishing and sustainable relationship with food.

Respecting Personal Preferences:

Sustainable eating begins by embracing foods you love but that also love you back. 

Providing Adequate Energy for Health:

Recognizing that energy needs vary from person to person based on various factors, including activity level, size, sex, body composition, genetics, and more. You can understand your body's energy needs without calculating calories to know how much food you need. Learn how to trust your body and break free from diet culture. 

Covering Macro- and Micronutrient Needs:

Meeting your essential vitamin and mineral needs generally requires consuming an adequate intake of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. This can be achieved by having regular meals throughout the day with three food groups and having all food groups daily.

Avoiding Unnecessary Food Restrictions:

Many diets use unsupported claims to reel people in. You don’t need to omit entire food groups unless there are legitimate health reasons to do so or when it supports your own personal definition of recovery. 

Respecting Food Intolerances and Allergies:

Acknowledge and address any food intolerances, allergies, or sensitivities you may have. Whether it requires exclusion or flexibility, understanding your body's responses to certain foods is crucial. Blood testing can provide valuable insights into your specific sensitivities.

Convenience:

Eating shouldn’t be a time-consuming burden, even though it might feel like this at first. Sustainable eating must be integrated into your schedule and life in a practical way so it can continue. Be honest with yourself here and make everything doable. 

Affordability:

Contrary to popular belief, optimum health doesn't demand expensive groceries, only organic foods, or an extensive list of supplements. The best way is to align your grocery shopping with your budget. Money spent on groceries is a good investment, but only if it's sustainable.

Socially Acceptable and Not Hazardous to the Individual or Others:

A sustainable way of eating should not cause social impairment and emotional distress as that would be working against health rather than for it. Consider how social support can support your growth, even under unpredictable circumstances. 

Compatibility with Personal Ideologies:

Cultural, philosophical, and religious beliefs can shape dietary habits and should always be respected so long as they're not detrimental to anyone's health and well-being. 

Long-Term Sustainability:

Sustainable, healthful eating isn't about following the latest fad; it's about creating habits that align with your personal preferences, intolerances, goals, and ideologies. Begin where you are and let your journey towards a sustainable and nourishing relationship with food evolve.

Conclusion

The key lies in understanding and honoring your unique needs in building a sustainable relationship with food. Let these guiding principles shape your journey towards healthful and sustainable eating, ensuring that every step is a conscious choice that leads to long-term well-being. Remember, your relationship with food is a dynamic process that evolves, and embracing this evolution is the key to a sustainable and nourishing lifestyle.

Get started on the Wise Mind Nutrition mobile app-based program for free and step into your next chapter with grace!