Living with diabetes can be challenging, especially when it comes to mealtimes. It can be difficult to know what to eat, how much to eat, and when to eat. However, there is a technique that can help make mealtime less stressful and more enjoyable: intuitive eating.
In this post, we’ll explore what intuitive eating is, how it can benefit people with diabetes, and strategies for incorporating it into your daily routine.
What is Intuitive Eating?
intuitive eating is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the act of eating. This means paying attention to the taste, texture, and smell of food, as well as the physical sensations of hunger and fullness. It also involves being aware of the thoughts and emotions that arise during eating.
Benefits of Intuitive Eating for Diabetes:
Intuitive eating can have several benefits for people with diabetes, including:
- Improved Blood Sugar Control: Intuitive eating can help you better understand how different foods affect your blood sugar levels. By paying attention to how you feel after eating certain foods, you can make more informed decisions about what to eat and when to eat.
- Reduced Stress: Mealtime can be stressful for people with diabetes, especially when there are strict dietary restrictions to follow. intuitive eating can help reduce stress and anxiety around food by promoting a more relaxed and positive mindset.
- Increased Satisfaction: intuitive eating can help you feel more satisfied with your meals by increasing your awareness of the flavors and textures of the foods you eat. This can help reduce the urge to overeat or indulge in unhealthy foods.
Strategies for Incorporating intuitive Eating into Your Routine
Here are some strategies for incorporating intuitive eating into your daily routine:
- Slow Down: Take your time when eating, and savor each bite. Try to chew your food thoroughly and take breaks between bites to fully appreciate the flavors and textures.
- Eliminate Distractions: Avoid distractions like TV or your phone during mealtime. Instead, focus on the food in front of you and the people you’re sharing the meal with.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to the physical sensations of hunger and fullness. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re full, even if there’s still food on your plate.
- Practice Gratitude: Take a moment before eating to express gratitude for the food in front of you and the people who prepared it.
Intuitive eating is a powerful tool for people with diabetes, helping to improve blood sugar control, reduce stress, and increase satisfaction with meals. By slowing down, eliminating distractions, listening to your body, and practicing gratitude, you can incorporate intuitive eating into your daily routine and reap the benefits. Wanting support as you work to incorporate intuitive eating into your life, schedule a call today to learn more about private coaching.
Looking for more intuitive eating resources? The following books are great choices for working through the practice of intuitive eating. AMAZON LINKS!