The Questions of Eating by Jennifer Pereira
People ask me, “What is the secret to eating right?” Well, the answer is as simple as these five questions: What, When, Where, How, and Why? These are familiar questions, but what do they have to do with eating? Everything—if you can answer these questions, you are well on your way to eating ‘right’.
“Next time you are thinking of eating, try asking yourself: What, When, Where, How, and Why?”
What? This question has to do with what you are choosing to eat. Most people think this is the most important aspect of eating, but it is most certainly not. What you should eat is pretty simple. You need some protein, carbohydrates, and fats…everyday. I find people do best when they combine carbohydrates with either protein or fat at each eating experience. This regulates blood sugar and hunger levels.
When? Ideally I like to see people eating every 2-3 hours. This works out to be about 5 or 6 times per day. Many people are alarmed at this—they think this will greatly increase their overall intake, thus adding weight. This assumption is incorrect. This pattern of eating increases metabolism as well as preventing excessive hunger. This is not 5 or 6 huge meals, rather it is 3 meals and 2 or 3 snacks.
Where? The environment in which you eat has a big influence on your eating in general. If you eat amidst chaos, you do not digest well and feel rushed and unsatisfied. If you eat distracted (while watching TV or working on the computer), you tend to look down and find the food is suddenly gone. Since you did not pay attention, you do not feel satisfied…and you go look for more food.
How? Eating mindfully can be another key to being fully satisfied. When you really connect to your food, and truly savor each bite, you will almost certainly eat less overall. This involves slowing down and engaging as many of your senses as possible.
Why? This is what I would consider the most important aspect of your eating. Answering this question can give important insight into your eating behaviors. Many people find themselves wanting to eat, but not actually physically hungry. Why would you want to eat when not hungry? This usually has some underlying emotion, such as: boredom, anxiety, sadness, happiness, etc. If you eat when you are physically hungry, you will be helping yourself eat ‘right’. If you find there is another reason underlying the urge to eat, it is best to find a solution that directly addresses that issue.
Next time you are thinking of eating, try asking yourself: What, When, Where, How, and Why? These five simple questions can help you answer the question for yourself, “What is the secret to eating right?”
(Photo Credit: Lorissa Shepstone)
Jennifer Pereira is a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist based in Arlington, Texas. She focuses on nutrition and body image here at All Things Girl. Her website is: Nutrition Paradox and she is the creator of a new Online Instictive Eating Program called Born to Eat.
