The folks at Renaissance Periodization (one of my favorite sources of diet and exercise information) shared a meme on Facebook: “Nothing annoys me more than wasting calories on disappointing food.” I couldn’t agree more.
Trying to manage one’s calories and lose fat is hard. When we reach our goals and enter a maintenance phase, we know we don’t want to waste calories (or money) on food that is less than enjoyable.
I last some weight a few years ago. We went out to one of our favorite local restaurants for dinner, and I ordered a burger—medium rare (it’s gotta be pink in the middle). It came out well-done. I was tormented about sending it back. My wife, though, reminded me that I worked too hard not to get what I wanted. The burger was replaced with one that was perfectly cooked, and it was delicious. The owner was overly apologetic and insisted it was “on the house”. I scarcely consume a calorie at this restaurant that is less than enjoyable. The food and the service is always great.
I love to eat! I can never maintain a very lean physique because I love good food and good beer. Still, I try no maintain a healthy lean. So, when I eat or drink. I want it to be better than good. I am fine with food that fits my calories and macros being passable (we like to say about such food: “Well, it’ll make poop.”—in other words, it serves our basic physiological and nutritional needs), but foods that cost me calories better be good.
When one is “dieting” (i.e., eating a hypocaloric diet with the intent of losing fat), food should be bland to discourage over-eating. When the “diet” ends (one enters the maintenance phase), one does not want to damage one’s success with excessive calories. So, when we are enjoying ourselves with some extra calories, we want them to be good. Desserts, in particular, should be rewarding. The second bite of a donut is rarely as satisfying as the first. Any dessert that comes in plastic packaging is going to be less satisfying than fresh baked. One should never be left asking “Why did I eat that?” We should never leave the dining table with regrets!
The principle of “opportunity costs” applies also to food. Choose wisely.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!