What are the positive and negative reasons to allow oneself a "cheat meal" every once and awhile?
I have been on a very strict low calorie, low fat and high protein diet for the last 2 an 1/2 months along with a strict cardio and weight training routine. I have not strayed but starting to feel the little temptations of a meal that reminds my taste buds the flavor of "being naughty ". The fear is that I have had very good success these last two months and I don't want to lost any hard work but at the same time that same fear makes me wonder if I should reflect on an other issue of being over obsessed with results and not learn proper "normal out of program" moderation etc. Any help would be much appreciated.
Just my opinion:
U answered yourself. If you want to live and on a very regimented diet, schedule or anything else, the “cheat” presents a multipurpose.
I offer “cheat days” to relax away from the strict regiment BUT, still with a responsibility of not over blowing the program in a day or two (don’t set training back by a week),(in the application).
*You will learn about or boost your self discipline (+/=)
*learn how “U” respond to utilizing this strategy(=/+)
*If you are actively challenging yourself consistently w/variety in your program your nutrition should be adjusted with it. *If your stuck on achieving a certain goal (weight (-), body comp (+) allow yourself some freedom…BURNOUT can be right around the corner for some & if your dedicated to your program like you say you should be fine(b honest w/self).
I personally don’t see a negative when used “responsibly,” rather than a bailout or excuse…
Cheat meals are a great way to restore a bit of normal back into an otherwise mundane diet. Allow yourself a couple of cheat meals a week, just don’t over do it. Remember 3 scoops of ice cream spread throughout the week is better than going for the binge and demolishing a bucket of ice cream in one sitting. Also a cheat meal allows your body to get that satisfied feeling from the fats and carbs. I find that it will actually motivate me because I’ll work harder in the gym before a cheat meal, and also get a little buyers remorse and go hard on my next training session due to my cheat meal. Moderation is key.
Hello Gus,
How have you been doing?
I do not believe in a cheat meal for myself; although, I do allow the discretionary calories for those in transition from a poor diet. There are times you will be obsessed with your program and other days you are more relaxed.
One cheat meal a week will not hurt as long as you do not overdo it when you are still doing a safe exercise program. I must say that a balanced lifestyle is the best way to go; meaning, a balanced diet to go with a balanced exercise program.
Talking to your doctor at a checkup is also a good idea to make sure you are not silently hurting yourself. Take care.
