In this episode of "The Exercise Engineer," Lou discusses the concept of labeling foods as "clean" or "dirty" and the impact it has on our mindset and relationship with food. She shares a testimonial from a client who struggled with a bad relationship with food and how they were able to overcome it by understanding that there are no "bad" foods, only foods with varying nutritional value. Lou emphasizes the importance of removing labels and guilt from our eating habits and instead focusing on fueling our bodies with nutrients and enjoying all foods in moderation. This episode also touches on the benefits and drawbacks of calorie labeling on menus and the importance of consistency in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Overall, this episode aims to change our perspective on food and promote a positive and sustainable approach to nutrition and fitness.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Labelling foods as "clean" or "dirty" is not helpful and can be damaging to our mindset around food. It creates a sense of guilt and shame associated with certain foods, which can lead to unhealthy eating behaviours.
There is no such thing as a "bad" food. All foods can be part of a healthy diet as long as they are consumed in moderation and balanced with other nutritious foods.
Focusing on consistency in our eating habits, rather than having cheat meals or restricting certain foods, is more effective for long-term weight maintenance and overall health. Striving for balance and moderation is key.
Calories on menus can be helpful for those who are trying to make informed choices about their food intake. However, it's important to not become overly fixated on calorie counting and to still enjoy meals without guilt or restriction.
Building a positive relationship with food and exercise is crucial for long-term success. Instead of viewing food as something to be controlled or restricted, we should focus on nourishing our bodies and enjoying the pleasure of eating.
BEST MOMENTS:
"I've always struggled eating the right things in the right proportions, and I was never giving my body what it needed to survive day to day."
"There is no such thing as a bad food. There's only food that has more or less calories in it, only food that has more or less nutritional value in it."
"Words play such a substantial part in the success of diets... clean eating presents the idea of perfection, which is clearly unrealistic."
"If you call it a cheat meal, it gives you the green light and the green pass to just eat as much as possible without supposedly failing your diet."
"Not labeling foods and building all foods into our lives has proven time and time again to lead to a successful and healthy diet, and an improved mindset in this ridiculous diet culture."
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lou@theexerciseengineer.com
Lou's personal journey with body confidence and food struggles began at the age of 15, where overeating and guilt around food consumed her. But everything changed during the lockdown in March 2020. Determined to regain control, Lou immersed herself in research, found joy in working out in her garden, and started tracking her nutrition and steps. Surprisingly, she lost a stone in less than three months and discovered a newfound love for fitness.
Fueling her passion, Lou pursued personal training qualifications and launched her Instagram page in September 2020. After months of building a solid foundation, branding, and gaining relevant expertise, she started helping others achieve what once felt impossible—losing fat, feeling empowered, and loving the journey without restrictions. With numerous success stories, digital products, and a thriving membership program called Train with Lou, Lou now coaches, teaches, and learns about food, exercise, and mindset.
