The Diet Complex

I had originally drafted this post up discussing the science of sugar and the impact it has on the body. While doing so, I felt unqualified, and my head was spinning. Instead, I’m going to get some ideas that have been bouncing around my head regarding diet for a little while now.

What Works Best

There are a countless amount of diet plans out there today. Many boast opposite approaches, but promise the same results: better health, better appearance, and a better life.

If the entire concept of this blog hasn’t provided the impression that my philosophy is that self experimentation is often the best approach to answering any question, then I must be failing at my job here. Without trial and error, it is impossible to really know what works best for the individual.

What to Focus On

I’ve done a handful of diet trials, but all seem to boil down to “don’t eat this.” I think this is because of a limited view in how I see diets, that hasn’t really come to mind until writing this up.

Most diets, though not all, are centered around what SHOULD be eaten, but I now realize how easy it is to shift that focus to what SHOULD NOT be. It’s easy to get caught up in demonizing the elements we think should be avoided at all costs, while forgetting to give praise and focus to the parts that are good.

Stick To Your Guns, Or Should I Say Buns?

After finding a process that works for you, stick to it. “The good program followed is better than the perfect program you quit,” is a quote from guy I can’t shut up about, Tim Ferriss, and I really do believe in it.

As with many beliefs, dieting has camps of people who believe their approach is the best and everyone should obey. If you find something that works, to hell with what someone else is feeding you – hopefully not literally.

When it comes to sticking to what works, this of course doesn’t mean to hunker down and never budge, but to only make adjustments on your own terms. Continuing to experiment will help to make things even better over time. Experimenting can provide insights into new ideas, as well as prove old methods are still ideal.

In the end dieting can be as complicated as desired. My approach is to experiment over a short time and see how the diet affects me, for better and for worse, and adjust accordingly.

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