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Today, we are tackling the ever-popular topic of food – that’s right! From fad diets to counting calories, Jen gives us some insight on her experience.

When I first started with KRM, I ate Chic-fil-A at least twice a week and emotional ate every bit of 7 days a week. I thought I was living my life and nourishing my body with the Lord’s calories. With Jen’s help and LOTS of time, I have slowly changed my relationship with food – I still enjoy the occasional CFA splurge, but I no longer use it as a way to cope with the hardships of life. Can anyone else relate??

What do you eat on a typical day?

Quick, easy smoothie idea!
I love breakfast – like a deep, deep appreciation with starting my day with a delicious meal. I usually gravitate towards something fast and easy – fruit or a protein smoothie.

For lunch it’s soup or tuna and something that doesn’t take me a lot of time to make. Honestly, the less effort, the better.

Because I cook for the entire family we will have chicken, steak, or some type of seafood for dinner. But in all honesty, I’m not a big meat eater so I’m totally fine with having a colorful plate of veggies instead.

Do you count calories (why/why not)?

Everyone’s goals are different. I personally don’t count calories… BUT I have been on this journey for so long, I can can estimate the calories in anything (within 100 calories or so). Additionally, I have learned how much my body really needs, which is how I am able to not overeat. Now if you’re new to this, you need to find a system that works for you – however, one thing that is across the board for everyone is to track your food by using a food diary. I always recommend MyfitnessPal. It seems to be the most accurate and user friendly.

Is it important to track macros (why/why not)?

A diet without margaritas? Ya, don’t sign me up for that.
As mentioned, find a system that works for you and your goals. I do think it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet, especially if you’re doing strength training. Our muscles are composed of protein, so when we workout, we tear muscle fibers. For our muscles to rebuild bigger and stronger, they need adequate protein.

What food is your favorite/guilty pleasure?

I LOVE Mexican food. I could eat it every day of my life. There is nothing that soothes the soul like chips, salsa, and a margarita! Over the years, I’ve learned to enjoy Mexican food but also substitute ingredients to make it a healthier option.

I also love sweets. There is always a way to have your cake and eat it too. Sometimes I’ll have the sweet that I want, but I always ask myself, “is this worth what I have to do to burn off these calories?” Surprisingly, sometimes it’s worth it to me. Other times when I ask myself that I’ll put it back and choose a healthier snack.

What do you think of the KETO diet? Whole30? Paleo?

Here’s the thing…our bodies burn energy the same way it has from the beginning of time. I don’t care what anyone says, weight loss comes down to calories in calories out. How you accomplish this should be what’s easiest for you. I don’t think the KETO diet or any other program like this is sustainable for life. What you can do forever is eat less food and include more exercise.

When you follow a strict diet, most of the time, you’re not learning how to adequately fuel your body and control your portions. Then when you stop, you gain the weight back and then some. Yes doing it the old fashioned way of calories in and calories out takes you longer to lose the weight but it comes off in a healthy way and you’ve also taught yourself how to maintain it forever. Don’t get frustrated with slow weight loss. I always tell my clients 1 pound a week is 52 pounds a year and I’m ok with that.

Food is a tricky subject, but it doesn’t have to be. A lot of people are shocked when I tell them I don’t restrict myself on WHAT I eat, just HOW MUCH. I am a foodie through and through, and I have never passed up a donut – true story. Jen helped me learn to embrace this, which has helped set me up for long-term success.

Don’t beat yourself up on what you eat – it is a process that takes TIME and LEARNING. For me? It meant I failed time after time until I finally learned what foods (and portion sizes) that responded well with my body.

You’ve got this,

Mikayla