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.
Hi Gus,
I think the idea of re-framing the “cheat meal” into something less guilt-inducing is a good idea; something along the lines of “free reign” and less restrictive would be good.
You have to figure out how to get the results you want, for life (or alter what you can live with–results wise if it’ll protect your sanity). Nobody could, or should, be a low calorie, low fat plan for long (of course, that needs to be defined and it would be based on the person). Your body, brain, and mood need adequate fuel, nutrients, and fat to function optimally. Plus, you want to have some fun!
Take care,
Michelle