Balancing Flexibility and Commitment
Adopting a Flexible Mindset:
- Strategy: Accept that occasional deviations from the diet are part of life.
- Example: If you eat something off-diet at a social event, don’t stress. Just return to your usual eating habits afterward.
Prioritizing Key Elements of the Diet:
- Strategy: When choices are limited, emphasize the diet’s core components.
- Example: Choose dishes rich in vegetables and whole grains, even if they include small amounts of ingredients not typically found in the Mediterranean diet.
Finding Balance in Your Social Life
The 80/20 Rule:
- Aim to adhere to the Mediterranean diet 80% of the time. This approach allows flexibility and enjoyment in social settings.
Mindful Indulgence:
- When you choose to indulge, do so mindfully. Enjoy and savor the experience without guilt.
Staying Active:
- Balance out indulgences with physical activity. A walk or a dance can be a great way to stay active during social events.