Nutrition Part 2: Elimination Diets

Ah Elimination Diets

They work for some people, but not for others. I personally am not a fan.

I like eating a variety of foods from all the food groups. I have had some GI issues in the past, but since eating healthier over the last 6 months I have not had any noticeable ones. And I have not eliminated any foods, except soda for a little bit.

I initially eliminated soda because it was an addiction that I needed to free myself from. I can now have it occasionally without going hog wild so I allow it on rare occasions. I would rather eat my calories than drink them so it doesn't happen very often, but it still happens. And I am OK with that.

In addition to eating a variety of foods, I also like being able to eat in a myriad of social situations. Whether it be a family event, a meal served at work, a wedding, a funeral, a church function, etc. I like to be able to eat and not worry or question what is in it, can I have it, etc.

Now I totally understand that people have food allergies, sensitivities, religious, cultural, and other beliefs that lead them to an elimination diet. I think that is perfectly fine.

But if you are to go Vegetarian, Vegan, Atkins, GAPS, Paleo, FODMAPS, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, sugar Free etc... I hope you are doing it for your life time and not for a diet to lose weight. Diets for short periods of time don't work and you often rebound drastically when you allow a food you have restricted for so long back into your diet.

The only foods I eliminate are the ones I don't like :)

The key is moderation. You here this all the time, but guess what it really works! I for example, LOVE PIZZA. I have never been sick of it, I just love it. I had to give it up when I went dairy free for 6 months while breastfeeding my daughter. I missed it all the time. I would dream about it. So I knew when I wanted to be healthy that pizza can be a calorie bomb. But now I only allow myself 1-2 slices instead of 3-4 (depending on size) and if I still feel hungry I eat a salad or some fruit to fill up.

So Moderation really is the key factor. And if you can fit it in your calorie plan... Go ahead and eat that cookie, or icecream. Just have ONE cookie or scoop. Then you never feel deprived and feel like it's something you can keep at for a lifetime!