Are you tired of feeling guilty and ashamed after your cheat meals? As a registered dietitian, I want to challenge the idea of cheat meals and suggest an alternative approach.

When we think of cheating, it typically has a negative connotation. If you cheat on your diet, it can bring up feelings of guilt and shame, which can lead to diet failure. Many people beat themselves up and get stuck in a negative cycle, leading to more cheat meals or days of cheating.

So, what if instead of cheat meals, we allowed ourselves a treat every day? By incorporating small treats into our daily routine, we can satisfy our cravings without the guilt and shame that often comes with cheat meals. This approach can also prevent a spiral of cheating on our diet and help us stay on track.

I know what you’re thinking, “But I’ll gain weight if I have a treat every day.” Not necessarily. The key is to find a balance that works for you and allows you to enjoy your food without the guilt and shame. My suggestion is to keep your treat to around 150 calories per day. This way, you can indulge in your favorite treat without overdoing it.

Some of my clients’ favorite treats include dark chocolate, frozen bars, certain cookies, pudding, and fruit. The possibilities are endless. The important thing is to find something that you enjoy and fits within the 150-calorie limit.

In conclusion, cheat meals are not necessary for a healthy and sustainable diet. By allowing ourselves a treat every day, we can satisfy our cravings without the negative emotions that often come with cheat meals. This approach can help us stay on track and lead to a more balanced and enjoyable relationship with food. Give it a try and see how it works for you.