Chapter 1: The Catalyst for Change

In 2020, I moved into a new apartment with two roommates who were both committed to their fitness journeys. One was a competitive powerlifter, and the other was a personal trainer pursuing her nutritionist certification. Although I wasn't as dedicated to my health as they were, their influence encouraged me to explore a healthier lifestyle, leading me to hire my roommate as my nutrition coach.

While I felt motivated, I also experienced some embarrassment about my own habits. At 22, fresh out of college, I was keenly aware of my less-than-ideal eating patterns compared to my 30-year-old roommates. I had yet to master a balanced diet, but my curiosity about improving my health pushed me to learn more.

The most challenging aspect was my roommates' strong belief that carbohydrates were detrimental to health. As we all know, carbs are ubiquitous—found in bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, and even most fruits. I often joked with my nutritionist about wanting a high-carb diet, but deep down, I genuinely craved a way to incorporate them while still focusing on health.

She encouraged me to pay attention to how different foods made me feel. I noticed that sugary snacks and processed foods left me feeling sluggish and bloated, while other meals filled me with energy, making me ready for a workout even after a long day. Ironically, the meals that energized me were typically low in carbs and high in protein and vegetables—something I was reluctant to accept.

I understood that healthier eating would improve my well-being, yet I struggled to let go of impulsive meals filled with convenience store snacks. You know the type: you walk in for a small treat and leave with a cart full of unhealthy goodies. Despite this, I was enjoying my post-college life to the fullest.

One significant realization was that healthy meals don’t need to be complicated. The recipes that intrigued me during my searches for “healthy meals” were often overly complex and time-consuming. However, I found that I was more likely to cook meals that were simple and easy to prepare. My favorite discoveries included quick sheet pan dinners and one-pan stir-fries—perfect for a busy Monday night.

The impact of proper nutrition on our mental health was another eye-opener for me. I learned that a poor diet could contribute to depression, a revelation supported by numerous medical studies. Growing up in an environment where nutrition wasn’t prioritized, realizing the profound effects of healthy eating was empowering.

We also addressed my sugar cravings. While I didn’t have to eliminate anything entirely, I set goals to limit my sugar intake to under 24 grams and carbohydrates to under 100 grams daily. Even though I often fell short of these targets, I started reading labels and discovered just how prevalent sugar and carbs are in processed foods. This newfound awareness was enlightening.

Finally, I learned that planning meals and creating a grocery list significantly supported my ability to eat healthily. Having a prepared meal or a nutritious snack like carrots and hummus on hand made me less likely to indulge in unhealthy options from nearby stores. Sticking to my meal plans wasn’t always easy; my moods sometimes led me to crave something different. Yet, when I managed to adhere to my planned meals, the satisfaction was immense.

Was it Worth It?

I have no regrets about hiring my nutrition coach, although I only continued for about five months. During that time, I absorbed invaluable lessons and amassed a collection of new recipes. I felt equipped to maintain these healthy habits on my own, realizing that the responsibility was now mine to uphold my newfound skills and knowledge.

Thank you for reading! If this insight resonated with you, consider following for more.

Chapter 2: Insights from Expert Guidance

In this chapter, we explore essential insights from engaging with a nutrition coach, including practical tips and common misconceptions.

Video Description: Discover the five crucial aspects to consider when hiring a nutrition coach to help you achieve your health goals.

Video Description: Uncover the top three myths about hiring a nutrition coach and learn how to find the perfect fit for your unique needs.