10 Ways to Develop a Healthy Relationship with Food

Eat Like Me, SELF Magazine

By Cristin Dillon, SELF magazine

For several years now I have been showing you exactly what I eat everyday. I have received lots of positive feedback on how helpful it is for many you to see both my balanced, healthy meals as well as the occasional splurges. Others have asked for specific insight into my daily calorie count, to which I have always said no. I intend to stand my ground--and here's why:

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While readers always ask me my exact calorie intake I don't give it to you because I honestly don't know what it is! I don't have time to count every calorie. It's an unnecessary practice if you simply develop a good relationship with food. My needs could change tomorrow but if I continue to focus on how I feel and focus on my health, I know I will be able to adjust accordingly.

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You should have a rough idea of what your body needs each day but the number should not be the focus. What's more important than the number is that you start to appreciate what food does for your body rather than think of it as something you are restricted by. Invest time in developing a healthy relationship with food. Forget calories, focus on food!

Here are a few ways to help you change your mindset:

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1.Learn more about food. Not the calories in food but the fiber, the protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Learn about new foods and how to use both new and old foods in a variety of ways.

2. Slow down. Take at least 20 minutes to eat a meal, this will give your body time to feel full before you over-stuff it. Also, slow down so you don't eat impulsively -- no good food decision is made when you are hungry and rushing.

3.Plan ahead. Make a plan for the week to help balance your intake and avoid poor choices.

4. Go to the grocery store. You need to have healthy food around in order to eat it!

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5. Don't let the chaos of everyday life ruin your food intake. It just takes a couple of minutes of thinking (and doing) to stay on track during even the most crazy times of of life.

6.Write things down. In order to change habits, you have to change awareness and there is no better way to do that than to write things down and then read over them. Compare how you eat to how you should eat then make small changes to move towards the right diet.

7. Make an appointment with a registered dietitian. If you want the best recommendations, you have to go to the best source and an RD is the #1 source for smart dieting. If you are unable to visit an RD, try using www.MyPyramid.gov for a free basic assessment of your needs.

8.Stay positive. Food and weight can be frustrating but remind yourself that you are changing your habits so that you can change your mindset and not live in constant turmoil with food.

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9. Be patient. Change takes time to adjust to - be patient though, and don't give up.

10. Seek support. Follow 'Eat Like Me' as a reminder that eating healthy day-in and day-out doesn't have to be a struggle, it can be a lifestyle that will keep you feeling good both short-term and long-term! And find a friend who also wants to change their relationship with food and take the journey together.

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Photo Credit: Condé Nast Digital Studio