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Do you often think about food? Do you think, “Did I eat enough?” “Why am I hungry again?” “Did I eat too much?” Or even, “When do I get to eat again?”
One way to resolve these continuous thoughts about food is with a food plan. When you know ahead of time exactly what you’ll eat, it can take away the obsession of making choices about each meal or snack. You can get a food plan and nutritional support through a qualified therapist, registered dietitian, licensed nutritionist, doctor, or sponsor.
Some people plan and commit to even the amounts they will eat, weighing and measuring every morsel. They have the increased freedom of knowing the amounts they’re eating are just right—not too much, not too little. This is a highly individualized approach and not right for everyone. For others, weighing and measuring food is something they do for a limited period of time.
A food plan isn’t a box
Some people fear that a food plan will box them in or make them feel deprived of foods they enjoy. That’s not the idea at all. One of the biggest gifts of a customized food plan from a professional is how they will discuss your likes and dislikes and build your plan accordingly. That ensures you can look forward to your meals and feel satisfied when they’re done.
Far from a diet, a food plan is not restrictive. It focuses on what you CAN eat, and not what you cannot (due to allergy or irritation). It is a “partner” in your recovery and it joins with you to create a kind and loving relationship with food.
A food plan is a boundary
A food plan creates a nice boundary around the food—your food is figured out for you. Having boundaries around food can carry over into the rest of your life and help you have boundaries around relationships. For example, when you need to say no or “not now” to a request in order to protect your self-care.
A food plan isn’t forever
Just like the boundaries in our relationships need to change over time, your food may also be changed or tweaked with the support of a professional, a trusted mentor, or a sponsor. You are evolving in your relationship with food.