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Cheers,
Darya
1,842 responses so far
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Hi, Darya. I’ve been going through an emotionally stressful time the last few months and find I don’t have much of an appetite. This has allowed me to break through a two-year + plateau and lose an additional 12 lbs (added to the 85 I lost and maintained for two and a half years). I am growing concerned about nutritional deficiencies from under eating, however. I was wondering if you still take a multivitamin? If so, do you take it daily? Do you currently recommend a particular brand?
Sorry to hear that, Mary. I know when something like that happens to me it means there is something really difficult going on. For what it’s worth, I’ve found there’s always an equal and opposite potential for personal growth at the other end. My thoughts are with you.
Yes, I do take a daily multi. I prefer MegaFoods One Daily, and I swear it prevents me from even catching a cold.
Thanks for your very thoughtful reply. I will try the brand you suggest. Who knows, maybe the vitamin will help me deal with the stress better.
Actually the best method I’ve found to deal with stress is meditation. It’s not easy, but with regular practice it works. The book Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach is a great place to start.
Hi Darya,
I’m about to head off on a 3 month backpacking trip including 7 weeks in Europe (Spain, Portugal, Italy, Montengto, Albania and Greece), 2 weeks trekking in Nepal and 3 weeks in Indonesia.
The trip will be on a tight budget:
1)staying in cheap places which may or may not have kitchen or food storage facilities, moving around a lot (so it will be difficult to carry fresh/perishable foods) and I will therefore find it difficult to ‘cook’; and
2) eating on a budget and ‘eating out’ often so it may not always be budget feasible when out (particularly in the more expensive tourist centers of Europe) to have meals high in vegetables (which, from my experience, are often much more expensive than refined carb heavy menu options.
I would love to hear any tips you have for maintaining a foodist lifestyle and eating habits on the move! (apologies if you have already covered this in an earlier post and, if so, feel free to simply direct me to that post).
Thanks in advance (and thanks for your existing fantastic content!)
Hiya Daria, you may already know it’s a widespread belief that a. fruits and dairy don’t and SHOULDN’T go together (because they ruin one’s digestion) and b. that grains (pasta, bread, you name it) shouldn’t be eaten for dinner (I think you know the reasons behind these assumptions more than I do; + the limited amount of space don’t allow me to elaborate on the explanation; I’ve heard that protein and veggies constitute the healthiest and most recommendable type of dinner). I was wondering what you thought about this?
Neither of those recommendations are based in science. As long as you’re eating Real Food on most days you should be fine.
Thank you very much for your quick reply.
I’m close to finishing Foodist, btw – ever since I discovered you in February my life has changed significantly. Sending you my appreciation and love.
Hi, if there are unhealthy snacks in the house- even if I can’t see them, I want to eat them! How do I stay away from the cupboards
Why do you want to eat them? What need are they filling?
is honey fattening? natural blossom honey
It depends on how much of it you eat.
Hi Darya, first I should apologise for the embarrassing nature of this post.
I stumbled across this site while doing the hormone reset diet. I’m committed to making dietary lifestyle changes and this site and foodist are really helping! My issue is the increase in vegetables is really affecting my digestion so I’m bloated and very gassy. It looks and feels like I’m carrying the last 3 days meals around with me. Is this normal, and if so when will it pass? This is my third week of increased veg and fibre intake and the second occasion within that time where it has got this extreme after a few days. I should mention that my movements are much more frequent (every day vs every 2-3 days) but I felt much more comfortable and empty before.
Thanks for your help, it’s much appreciated!
That’s very normal, here’s my advice: http://summertomato.com/too-many-vegetables-how-to-prevent-gas-and-digestive-problems-caused-by-healthy-eating/
Thank you!! Avoid fake sugar – the solution to my problems!! Who would’ve thought a couple of those tiny sugar free sweets would wreak so much havoc…
Quick question – I would like to know how long my fresh veggies and fruit retain their nutrients. Most of the info I am finding seems to center on how long you can keep food before it outright spoils – but nutrient content is compromised long before the spoilage date, right? I’m starting to think that I may need to plan a couple of trips a week to the grocery/farmer’s market and buy smaller quantities of some fresh veggies and fruits rather than doing my big chop-and-prep binge on weekends.
There isn’t a black and white answer to this question. Some nutrients breakdown with time from the moment of picking, other nutrients actually increase with time after picking. It will depend mostly on the type of produce you’re talking about. That said, shopping more often and buying less is a great way to keep produce at its freshest, which usually adds to your overall food experience. At the end of the day it is far more important that you enjoy your food than obsess about microscopic nutrient changes.
I’ve been reading about inflammation reducing diets, which say eggs are inflammatory. I thought it was the opposite. Is it OK to eat eggs daily?
Eggs are fine.
Hi Darya! I’m 18 years old and just finished my first year of school, and easily gained 30+ pounds. I saw you on a podcast you had done with Jonathan Bailor not too long ago. Me and my dad have been doing his SANE program for about 4 months now. Totally long, long story short, Ive lost maybe 6 pounds and my dad has lost close to 40 and Im very, very frustrated. I have been reading multiple articles on the Summer Tomato a night, and totally agree with everything you are saying. I just don’t know why this isn’t working for me! SANE isn’t much different than what you’re thought process is, as Im sure you already know. Since Ive been reading all of your articles and what you believe, Ive started eating oats again, wheras for the past 4 months I’ve eaten absolutely no grains. I just don’t know what else to do! I do Jonathan’s eccentric exercises a few times a week, eat so dang healthy, and am pretty active. My mom thinks Ive been too strict and neurotic on what I’ve been eating, so I’ve been trying to not stress about it, as you are implying as well. If you have annnny suggestions at all that aren’t the “it’s just your hormones and age” answer that I have been getting, I would seriously appreciate it. Thank you Darya!
Hi Rio,
I can say with confidence that it definitely isn’t your hormones and age. I am not a fan of Bailor (he doesn’t actually understand science at all), but it is worth acknowledging that 6 lbs is a great start. If I were you I’d start on a deep dive of WHY you’re doing what you’re doing. Is it because you love your body, or because you’re fighting it? Then ask yourself what you can do to care for yourself in a way that makes you feel good instead of bad.
Please keep me posted.
Thank you so much for getting back to me, I really appreciate it! Ive been listening to more of your youtube videos and have been reading more of your articles and feel like I am learning a lot. I feel a lot better since I haven’t been so strict on my day to day diet. I have also really started to try mindful eating and keeping a food journal, I think this has helped a lot as well. I think my biggest problem was not eating the right portion controls, and keeping from mindless snacking. This is mostly because Bailor made it seem like you can never eat too much of an amount of a good food, so even though I was eating all the right foods, I think I was eating way too much. I haven’t seen any results yet, seeing it’s only been about a week or so, but I’m just trying not to stress about it and instead create good home court habits and just be active. If you have any other suggestions let me know! Thanks so much again Darya!
Hi Darya,
I’m a marathon runner who has gained 25 pounds since she went paleo (chicken, fish, fruit, vegetables). I don’t eat any sugar or dessert, and I don’t drink alcohol. I meditate and I get enough sleep. I was much fitter and fuller on carbs — my blood sugar gets low frequently now and I have to eat every two hours — but I’m scared to make the leap. How did you get brave enough to try them again? Do you count calories?
“How did you get brave enough to try them again?”
You can always go back to restriction. But has it helped you at all?
“Do you count calories?”
Nope. http://summertomato.com/7-reasons-keeping-a-food-journal-is-better-than-counting-calories/
I’m curious, why do you run marathons?
I was a distance runner in middle and high school, and I truly love to run. Maybe the marathon is too taxing on my body and I should drop to halves.
I didn’t start counting calories until I realized last week how much weight I gained, so it’s only been a week of counting. It’s been awful, actually. I end up feeling bad when I eat, which I never did before.
I am so grateful for your response and love that article. I definitely need to better understand why I eat and what my portion sizes are.
Restriction hasn’t helped me at all because I listen to my body and end up eating when I’m hungry, but I think I may be overeating protein. Is it possible to eat too much protein? It’s also sometimes hard to tell when I’m truly hungry. How do you do this?
It is definitely possible to overeat protein, personally it makes me really bulky (though most people still eat too little).
This should help a bit with portions http://summertomato.com/how-to-know-when-youve-eaten-enough/
Darya,
I just wanted to give you an update. Six weeks ago I took a test from Genova laboratories that said I was completely missing bifidobacterium. The lab tech thought it was because I had eaten a low carbohydrate, low FODMAP diet for over two years (at the instruction of GI doctors). That was the wakeup call. I also remembered your question — “has the low carbohydrate diet helped you at all?” Instead, it starved my body of good bacteria and gave me blood sugar issues.
That’s when I made the leap to eating carbs again.
I just have to tell you that I don’t remember the last time I felt this good. My weight is going back down to its normal range and I finally feel full. I feel calmer, happier, and more energetic.
I can’t thank you enough for your blog and your scientific pro-carb stance in the era of Paleo being King.
Amazing, that is fantastic. Congratulations on your success.
I prefer to think of myself as pro-you though 😉
What are your thoughts on milk for kids? I know it is “required” for their brain development and the recommendation is whole milk until age 2 and then they can switch to 1% or skim. Do you agree with this? When is it okay to switch them to an alternative milk (which one?) or just to water?
Just wanted to make sure you saw the question above. I know you have answered some since then, so I wanted to be sure it didn’t slip through the cracks – Thanks!
What about almond milk? Or soy milk?
I actually missed it, thanks for the reminder.
Unfortunately I don’t know the answer since I’ve never researched this topic. I don’t buy milk personally and would have trouble doing it for my kids if I had any––it’s just so darn processed. But I don’t feel comfortable giving you a specific recommendation without doing more research. If I did get milk, it would definitely be full fat though 🙂
Hi Darya,
Thank you for all of the info you provide to the general public. Your website and book are a rare place of sanity when it comes to health guidance.
I love the taste of lentils, but find when I eat them either prepared at home or from restaurants, they cause stomach pain and bloating for me. Any ideas as to why this may be? Could I be doing something wrong in their preparation? Beans don’t seem to have this effect.
Thanks for any info you can provide.
Have you tried soaking them before cooking?
Hi Darya,
I’m new to your site and am loving it. Thank. You. I bought Foodist too and have just started reading – where have you been all my life!? My dieting history is similar to yours. When I discovered with delight that on the Weight Watchers program, veggies have no points, and then learned in The Zone that you could eat a wagonload of veggies, I grew accustomed to doing these ‘veggie challenges’ where I would stuff myself, believing that the nutritional benefits of eating so many vegetables would be excellent and that I would be so full that I wouldn’t want to eat junk. I’ve realized that this tactic may have resulted only in stretching my stomach and increasing my appetite. And of course, there is always room for junk. Did you experience this? How would you recommend re-acclimating one’s body to being satisfied with a healthy balance of veggies, intact grains, protein and fat?
Mindful eating. Teach yourself to eat really slowly (there’s tips all over Summer Tomato) and you will naturally be satisfied with less.
Keep in mind that a quick reduction in food is going to be noticeable, and will therefore feel like deprivation. Your goal should be to gradually reduce the volume, maybe 10% at a time.
I have also found that eating more nutritious food helps a ton with satiety.
Good luck!
HI Darya, I was wondering if you had any more books you would recommend regarding habits and just health in general. I finnnally just ordered The Foodist and The Power of Habit. What else would you suggest?? Thank you!
Gretchen Rubin does some good work, and there’s lots of others. You can follow along all my reading here (with ratings):
http://www.shelfari.com/daryapino/shelf
Hi Darya, foodist and summertomato.com have changed my life! Thank you!
When you decide not to fill 1/4 of your plate w grains or beans, what do you have instead? More veggies? More protein?
Thanks!
More veggies, and usually starchier veggies like squash, beets or sweet potatoes.
hey darya,
I hope all is well! 🙂 I just have a concern in regards to breakfast, I have read a lot of your posts already and usually eat about 1/2c of rolled oats with 1c milk (almond, soy or full cream milk) and I normally add some dried fruit and/or nuts…I’m finding that if I eat breakfast at about 7am, I’m already quite hungry by 10am. Is there something wrong with me? I was kind of hoping a breakfast like that would keep me full til lunchtime!
There’s nothing wrong with you, but you probably aren’t eating enough. I personally use a hefty dose of nuts/seeds/dried fruit in my muesli because I need the fat and protein. I’m also really small (5’5″ with a tiny frame). You might just need to eat a little more. You can try to increase to 3/4 cup and see if that helps. Or supplement with fruit or something else.
This was happening to me, too. First I added protein (2 eggs) and tried that for a week or so. That helped a little, but I still wasn’t as satisfied as I wanted to be. Next I added veggies. I started with sautéed kale.
This breakfast of muesli, eggs, and veggies was great for my satiety, but it’s a lot to put together on a busy morning. Next, I increased the veggies and took out the muesli. This seemed to be my perfect breakfast (eggs and veggies) and I love how satiated I feel all morning until lunch.
Now I’m experimenting w different proteins like tempeh, edamame, beans, quinoa. It doesn’t seem to matter what I do as long as I get enough veggies to feel satisfied.
Also, my favorite veggie combination now is broccoli, cauliflower, onions, and mushrooms that I saute and splash with seasoned rice vinegar. Yum!
Hiee Darya – I am shopping for a fitness tracker but there are so many now to choose from that I naturally searched Summer Tomato for your advice. I read the Nike and Jawbone Up reviews but noticed they were all from 2012 and older. Any experience with the plethora of newer devices? [Fitbit ChargeHR/Charge/Surge/Zip, Jawbone Up24/Up3/Up Move, Garmin VivioSmart/VivoActive, Mio Alpha/Fuse/Link, Basic Peak, Misfit Shine/Flash, etc…] Too many! Thoughts?
Either myself or my husband have tried almost all of the devices. Personally I don’t like any of the wrist bracelets since I find them uncomfortable, unsightly and less accurate. My tracker of choice remains the Fitbit One.
I am a dieter at a normal weight. I eat tons of fruit and vegetables and have gotten used to being bloated all the time. It is uncomfortable. How do I get used to eat less volume? I am terrified to gain weight and fill up to not eat higher calorie foods.
I’m going to guess that you haven’t read Foodist. I think it would benefit you immensely.
I now read your book cover to cover. I think I would gain weight if I followed your advice. I do agree with your principles and tried it in the past but the weight gain wasn’t worth it.
Hey Darya,
What are your thoughts on cauliflower pizza bases?
I found a recipe that requires, 100g almond meal, 1 cauliflower, 2 eggs and some oregano. It came out really well. Curious to hear your thoughts…would this be foodist approved? yay or nay? 🙂
Whatever makes you happy 🙂
Hi Darya!
I drink black tea with a little milk and sugar. Does adding the milk destroy the antioxidant properties of the tea?
There’s nothing wrong with a little milk in your tea. For health there are dozens of bigger fish to fry.
Hi. I have a history of a restrictive eating disorder and while I like your book and theories, I find the urge to lose weight is high when I am at a Bmi of 18.5. Why do you focus so much on weight loss from following your non diet program?
For the majority of people, weight loss is still the most important thing they can do to get healthy. Even when that isn’t the case, that is still what most people are looking for when they find me. I believe it is possible to be both healthy and happy with your weight, and I try to put a great deal of emphasis on the personal psychological work that each person needs to do in order to get there.
I have become addicted to these calorie free noodles which are natural. What are your thoughts?
https://www.asianfoodgrocer.com/asian-food/noodles/shirataki-noodles/jfc-white-shirataki-noodles-16-0-oz
Are you asking what I think about being addicted to a food? What attracts you to them?
I’ve had them too. I wonder if they’re good or just another processed food?
Hi Darya,
Do you have any tips for learning to like canned sardines, or tasty ways of preparing them? I heard they are supposed to be really good for you, but I find them unappetizing. If I take fermented cod liver oil instead, will I get the same benefits?
Thank you!
Sardines typically need some sort of acid, like lemon, to balance their strong taste and oiliness. A dry white wine or sherry also works wonders.
Hi Darya,
Just got your course at Creative Live and love it. Question, however, about your daily Muesli that you eat: Is that recipe actually posted anywhere? You briefly described it in the class, but I am somewhat challenged in the kitchen, and it would be tremendously beneficial for me to know the exact cereal AND trail mixes you use (and what amounts) you use to make your muesli. The simplicity of your recipe sounded so great and is exactly the sort of thing I would like to make as a breakfast habit. Is there a place I could find your exact recipe, or, if not, could you please share it? Also, how should one determine portion size? I recall you’re saying you measure a half cup each day, but I am somewhat larger than you. Is there some formula or algorithm for determining portion size?
Finally, thanks for all the great info, and especially for giving those of us from whom dieting doesn’t work a much better (behavioral) way to approach food and its role in our overall well being!
Hi Steve,
Here’s some more info on the muesli:
http://summertomato.com/how-to-make-your-own-muesli-its-stupid-easy/
These days I just get a trail mix from Whole Foods. Whatever you like is fine so long as it is only nuts, seeds and dried fruit (i.e. no chocolate, pretzels, etc.)
I can’t tell you how much you need, but it seems reasonable to try 3/4 cup to start. Remember it bulks up substantially when cooked.
Glad you’re enjoying the CL course, that was fun!
Hi Darya,
Thanks so much for getting back to me – this is going to work really well for me. Essentially, my issue is that I’m 30 lbs too heavy (I’m 6’2″, and weigh 245) but when I start to cut carbs aggressively (which is what really has worked for me in the past), I find that I now have a tendency to become hypo-glycemic. It seems that eating something like rolled oats in the morning really helps with this, but I am just SO tired of the blandness and tedium of it that I sometimes skip it or eat something like Cheerio’s instead – which can let me bottom out if I don’t eat again in about 2-3 hours. I’m hoping the Muesli will provide enough flavor and interest to allow me to do it consistently. As you said in your CreativeLive course, getting breakfast right is 30 percent of the puzzle. I hope to find the other 70% from your course and the great info here. Thanks again!
Hi Darya,
I too struggled with weight and dieting for years. I went back to school in my 20’s to become an RD so as to learn more about food. I cook almost all of the time and we eat a mostly plant based diet (with tons of veggies), only eating out about 1/week. For years I have also been very consistent with exercise (at times doing way too much). Through the last few years of my 30’s I finally felt comfortable with my weight and fitness level. Once I turned 40, it became a constant struggle. It doesn’t matter how well I eat or how much I exercise, I can’t lose weight or even maintain. I haven’t worn “real” clothes for going on 2 years. I am totally unhappy and miserable with my body, but feel I have tried everything to no avail. At this point I really have to force myself to exercise b/c I feel it isn’t helping. I spoke to my doctor who claims it is common for women to gain up to 20 pounds after 40. I find this unacceptable. (My thyroid is normal – on the low end, but within range.) I am at a loss to what else to do. Any ideas or suggestions? Thank you!
It’s hard to give advice without more details on your habits (this isn’t the right forum for that), but my first thoughts are to focus on strength training and more protein to offset any metabolic changes that may be occurring. Don’t give up though, you should exercise because it feels great. If it doesn’t try something new.
Hi Darya,
Thanks for all the wonderful advice I have been reading. In recent times, I have been working out (crossfit) and lost lot of weight but still seem to be struggling with my belly which is kind of grown.
I am not entirely sure if its my diet or not. I am guilty of eating bread in my breakfast, lunch and dinner and I drink protein shakes. I am not entirely sure on where I am going wrong. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.
All you can do is try things see what works. Bread 3x/day is definitely a lot, so that is a logical place to start.
Hi Darya,
I had a question about overcoming fear. I am 22 and after starting a new birth control last year, I gained about 15 pounds very quickly. I started a food diary then, worked out obsessively, and restricted my diet. As you would imagine, that didn’t help. About two months ago I stopped taking the medication and embraced your real food approach, but I’m still not seeing much improvement. I run an hour a day 7 days a week and dance twice a week as well, which is less than what I was doing before, but my doctor still thinks it is too intensive and suggests I cut back.
However, I’m terrified if I reduce my exercise, even a tiny bit, I will gain weight. What would you recommend? How do you get over this kind of fear?
I know that fear well. By my calculations you’re running about 6 miles, 7 days per week. That’s 42 miles a week. That’s A TON. I’m sure cutting back will help you regain your sanity and probably reduce your hunger dramatically. For me giving up dieting was terrifying, but I knew I could always go back to it if stopping didn’t work. Running isn’t going anywhere, but I imagine you’ll be much happier with less of it.
Dear Darya,
There’s one question that I want to ask you: Can you tell me anything about optimal meal frequency? Some people say you have to eat 6 small meals a day to keep your metabolism high and lose weight. How Many Meals Should You Eat Per Day if your goal is to lose weight?
Thank you!
What’s important is you never let yourself get starving. I’d recommend eating first thing in AM, around noon/lunch, a snack before or after your workout, and dinner on the earlier side (~7p). There are studies both for and against more frequent meals, so I wouldn’t put too much faith in it. There’s a lot to be said for intermittent fasting as well, for example.
Hi Darya,
I love your book and blog! I am a pescetarian (for about four months) and really focus on limiting bread, processed food, and added sugar. It is really unusual for me to have cravings for sweets, but for the past week, I have been struggling with the overwhelming desire for cookies and cake. Could this mean that I am missing something in my diet and my body is responding with sugar cravings?
To be honest, I have given in to all of my cravings and eaten so much more sugar than usual… What does this sugar binge do to my body? Am I doing a lot of damage by giving in to these cravings?
Thanks!
Caroline
Hi Caroline,
Don’t worry too much about it, these things happen. Just keep listening to your body if you want to get to the bottom of it. Could be hormonal, stress, nutritional, seasonal, or something else. Don’t feel guilty about giving in, just be mindful about what is going on and try to understand.
Hello Darya,
I hope you are doing well!
What is your take on fish oil supplements? Is there a specific kind you recommend (cod liver oil, krill, or fish oil)?
Thanks!
Ali
I personally don’t take any, but it’s not a terrible idea if you don’t eat much fish. Cod liver is good, but be careful about overdosing on vitamin A. Krill is good, but only if you can find a sustainable source as to not decimate our oceans.
Hi Darya,
What is your opinion on coconut oil? Would you include it in the healthy fats box?
It’s great, but cooking with it can be tricky (I find it makes things burn easily).
I am reading your book and noticed the three meals per day suggestion but given my long hours, long commute (2 hours one way) and desire to cook meals at home, I am wondering if there are any issues with adding a snack at around 3 or 4 pm and also if there is any issue with eating less than 3 hours before sleeping. I eat breakfast between 5:30 and 7 am on train then workout in morning so usually eat lunch at 11ish but don’t get home at the earliest M-Thurs until 7 pm (but go to bed by 10). Hence my questions above. I had brought my dinner to work but then I am making a set group of meals (usually stews/soups) and not getting the diversity of food which is my aim (given the CSA I joined, the farmer’s market on Sunday, not to mention your 30-day cooking without recipes program).
Totally fine to snack, especially if you’re working out at some point during the day. No need to overthink this stuff, no one can argue what works for you.
Everything you say about weight really resonates with me. I like the idea of weighing yourself every day, not as a point of shame, but just as a check-in and a means to hold yourself accountable. The only thing I keep wondering (and I’m sure others have asked this) is about building muscle and how that effects weight. My weight is relatively low compared to some of my friends, but they are a lot more muscular and have less body fat than I have. I guess my question is what your outlook on that issue is, and how to approach my relationship with the scale as I try to lose body fat and build muscle.
Hi Anna,
I loved this question so much I decided to answer it as a video. I hope this helps!
http://summertomato.com/ask-darya-what-should-my-relationship-with-my-bathroom-scale-look-like/
Darya
Hi Darya,
I recently was diagnosed as being anovulatory, with an accompanying hormone imbalance, and have gained a lot of weight, no matter how thoroughly I overhauled my diet or how diligently I exercised. I was wondering if you had any idea if, when the imbalance is corrected, will everything go back to normal on it’s own? Or is this my new baseline and I’ll have to somehow work even more?
Hi Shira,
I don’t know the answer to this, unfortunately. Your doctor may have more experience with your specific disorder. Regardless of the answer, you will feel your best and stay the healthiest if you view eating well and exercise as something that makes your life better, not worse. As long as it’s “work” it will continue to be a struggle.
I love your idea of shopping at farmers markets whenever possible, but I’m located in Denver, where farmers markets tend to run from June/July through October-ish. What would you suggest as an alternative during the rest of the year? Should I order produce from a CSA and have it shipped to me? Should I find a farm that does pasture-raised poultry/meats and order through them?
Hi Stacey,
Thanks for the great question. I went ahead and answered it in this video:
http://summertomato.com/ask-darya-what-should-i-do-if-i-dont-have-a-local-farmers-market/
Cheers,
Darya
Can you provide some strategies for following the advice in your book when you have young kids at home? It’s hard to do things like eating slowly and mindfully with young children at the dinner table. You’re trying to just eat while tending to them and often up and down a lot. It can be frustrating. Also, I find that when I do get frustrated with them or just parenting in general (any time of the day), one of my first instincts is to turn to food as a coping mechanism. It feels like an easy way to get a quick, emotional “fix” but I know it’s not helping me. Another thing that makes it harder is that you always have kid friendly snacks in the house, always beckoning. You mentioned somewhere in your book that being around young children requires a lot of will power, which can then get depleted and make it harder to make healthy decisions around food. But I guess I was just looking for some more of your insight around these particular challenges!
Hi Ashley,
Sorry I missed this one for a bit. I don’t have children, but might be able to offer some insight into the nature of mindfulness.
Being constantly mindful and “on” is extremely difficult, and takes many years of training. But to start to get some of the benefits it doesn’t have to be this hard. Taking a few deep breaths (here’s an example), can have a profound effect in moderating stress and helping you focus on your own well-being.
I’d recommend starting there and noticing other small areas of your day where small, mindful moments are possible for you.
Cheers,
Darya
I love cooking real food, I love eating real food. Unfortunately, I also just love eating — and that’s become a bit of a problem.
I need to lose some weight. My body fat percentage is unhealthy. Not morbidly so, but far enough that if I don’t slough off some extra lipids then I’ll increase my risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, myocardial infarction, etc.
I understand that, at the most basic level, I need to eat less and move more. I get it, and honestly it really is that simple.
But at the same time, it’s not.
The psychological aspects, the physiological aspects, psychosocial, micronutrients, activity level, activity duration … Let’s face it, humans are stupidly complex. If there was a truly simple answer, there wouldn’t be an obesity epidemic in the USA.
In mucking my way through the mire that is “Health”, I came across this gem:
“Food is fuel for your body.”
I can’t explain why completely, but this sentence disgusts me on a visceral level. Food and the act of eating itself are so much more. There are religions that celebrate their most sacred tenants with food. Sharing food with another person is a globally, potentially universal, understood communication of goodwill.
That’s why these two contradictory articles have me so confused.
No, food is NOT fuel. And, thankfully, you’re not a Ferrari. by John Berardi, Brian St. Pierre, and Krista Scott-Dixon
Yes, Food IS Fuel and there is Value in Viewing it that Way by James S. Fell, CSCS and Margaret Yúfera-Leitch, Phd
Have you seen these articles before, and what is your take on this debate.
Thank you for taking the time to make it all the way to the bottom of this post. I’m extremely grateful for all you do, on this site and elsewhere.
P.S. Please relay to your spouse that I have two Diggnation pint glasses in my freezer, ready to serve at a moments notice.
My apologies, I goofed on that second link. Here is the correct address:
http://www.bodyforwife.com/yes-food-is-fuel-and-there-is-value-in-viewing-it-that-way/
I think this is the answer you’re looking for:
http://summertomato.com/homo-nutritiocus/
JC, please be more concise if you’d like me to answer this.
Do you believe that thinking of food strictly as fuel for the body is a detriment or a benefit?
Hello Darya –
My question is about good diet while using antidepressants. I have struggled with side-effects like stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea , acid reflux and bloating from taking a few different types of antidepressants. The doctor’s advise is to mostly take digestive pills, fiber supplements and pain meds. I would like to know how to manage my diet better to not get so much digestive system related problems while using these medications. Any ideas? Do you know how most antidepressants affect the digestive tract to cause these kinds of symptoms? I would appreciate any input you can offer. Thanks!
Sorry, I can’t help with specific medical conditions and medications. Best of luck.
Darya – Is turbinado sugar better for you than regular cane sugar, or is there no difference?
Negligible difference.
I’ve heard statistics that say that too much protein can lead to a lot of health risks (this article contains a few of them: http://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2014/03/04/the-protein-puzzle-meat-and-dairy-may-significantly-increase-cancer-risk/ )
Have you found that this something that people should be worried about?
Eating too much of anything can lead to a lot of health risks, especially industrial foods (most meat and dairy in the US comes from industrial farms that would make you sick to get near them).
In the future, please avoid asking questions that require me to read a separate article in order to answer them. Thanks.
Darya,
Do you know of any canned tomato sauce products that do not contain BPH?
As far as I know tomatoes are too acidic to not contain BPA (or any of the dangerous ones). I stick to tomatoes in glass jars.
Are there any foods that women should incorporate into their diet or avoid in order to increase bone mineral density?
Thank you so much for all that you do!
Most of your bone density is established in your teen years and is connected to estrogen, vitamin D and calcium levels. Weight bearing exercise is also helpful in preserving bone strength.
Hi Darya,
I’m interested in your thoughts around eating seasonally and locally. I live in a place where we don’t have four seasons – our seasons are wet and dry.
Which do you believe to be more beneficial for our bodies: four season eating or eating locally?
with love and light,
Nadia
Seasons for sure. If you have to buy imported food from a not-too-far place with a better climate that is totally fine. Diversity is more important than shipping times.
That said, there’s no good reason to buy food from another hemisphere.
Hi Darya,
Just wondering, what are your favorite recipes for breakfast lunch and dinner?
I don’t cook from recipes, but I posted some resources below.
http://summertomato.com/summer-tomato-live-episode-2-daryas-healthstyle/
http://summertomato.com/tag/home-court-recipes/
I’m curious though what you hope to gain by asking this question?
Hi Darya!
Do you still use your nonstick pans? I am thinking of upgrading to iron cast without enamel but concerned about the preseasoning process with highly processed soy oil. I’m considering Lodge brand and that is what their website states. Thank you!
I use Scanpans, which are non-stick ceramic. They’re expensive, but the best I’ve found. Cast iron is good, but was too heavy and difficult to clean for my habits. I ruined 2. I wouldn’t overthink the seasoning oil situation, your own cooking oils will be the main seasoning of the pan.
Hi Darya,
Brain question! How do you convince yourself in the moment to make the choice you *know* will make you feel better… but the bad idea seems like a good idea? I struggle with wanting cupcakes/cookies/chips when I’m overtired & stressed finishing writing work at night (there’s a store downstairs, so temptation’s close). There’s never been a time it makes me feel great- yet it in the moment it always seems like something worth trying for more energy. How do I stop myself from making a choice I already know the outcome of?
Thanks!
-Kaite
Kaite, this is a great question! Here’s my video response:
http://summertomato.com/ask-darya-how-can-i-resist-temptation-in-the-heat-of-the-moment/
Hi Darya, I was wondering what your take is on protein powders? I did a general search on your site and also on your Ask Darya page. Maybe you covered that already and I missed it?
Thanks in advance!
n
Hi Nicole,
I’m not a fan. They taste bad, you almost certainly aren’t lacking protein, and there’s been a few potentially scary studies about isolated proteins. I honestly don’t see the point.
Darya
Hello Darya
Can you please tell me how can i reduce cellulite? please…
Thanks in advance
Darya,
I’m trying to limit my sugar intake. Of all the healthful sugar substitutes, which tasted most like sugar?
Personally I think all the substitutes taste disgusting, and if I want sugar I just eat sugar and don’t pretend it’s good for me.
Here’s more:
http://summertomato.com/natural-sugar-substitutes-and-artificial-sweeteners-for-better-or-for-worse/
Tanks, Darya!
Your attached article on this topic shed some important light on my question.
Hi Darya, I am always looking for ways to improve my health and maintain my weight but since finding your website it has only served to affirm all my actions to date. Your attitude towards weighing yourself regularly to keep on track, viewing the scales as friend not enemy, I have for years chosen to ignore those who tell me this is an unhealthy obsession. I have also realised that all of the healthy changes I struggled to introduce but eventually became second nature are the habits that you talk about and your home court habits really resonated with me because although mine are slightly different to yours, I realised that is what I do and why my peers seem to view me as being disciplined in my attitude towards food, activity and health. But I am now fighting a battle that feels like the devil is trying to intercept all this good work and there seems to be very little I can do about it. The devil is my hormones. I’m 50 and going through the menopause and it is playing havic with my body. My stomach seems to explode in size and I can put 4-5 pounds on overnight when there is no valid reason for it (I track and monitor everything and am totally honest about the food I eat, even if I’ve indulged). It is very frustrating and depressing when you know you’re doing everything right, and all your advice concurs with that fact, so I just wondered if you had any specific information or advice to assist us older ladies. I just keep telling myself to ride the wave when I blow up like Michelin man for several weeks, but it’s not easy. Thanks in anticipation.
Hormones are tricky and everyone is different. If it were me I would stick with the things that fuel me, especially exercise, cooking and mindful eating.
In my experience dealing with hormones is hardest when they are in flux. Once they settle down and you have a new normal you can work to get your habits dialed in again.
Hi Darya! You mentioned in your recent video that you are happy to make more videos on various topics from kettle asking you questions here.
If you have time, or if you find this question interesting to talk about, I’d be so excited to hear more about mindfulness from a perspective of a Western and driven person like you. I have recently been trying to work on living in the present from moment to moment. I realised it’s the key to most aspects of life, including weight management and healthy eating habits. I’m a healthy weight but I noticed that more and more recently I chose food as comfort when I’m down / bored / excited etc. I am trying to nip it in the bud, since it is not mentally healthy to turn food from source of nourishment and enjoyment to solely comfort when I’m not even hungry.
So, mindless fascinates me. I excited to hear you went into the Silent retreat. How do you continue to bring appreciation of the present moment in your everyday life
Practice. The more I practice, the easier it is. When I stop my practice the mindlessness creeps back in. My goal is 4-5 20+ min meditation sessions per week. That seems to keep me in pretty good shape.
Hi Darya,
I am an 18-year old who has struggled with overeating/binge-eating for a couple years now and am so tired of saying tomorrow I’ll start eating right- I want to start now. Do you have any tips that will help me stop binge eating for good?
Get to the bottom of what is causing the binges. What is the trigger? Be honest with yourself. It’s hard work, but there’s no shortcut.