Creating balance in your meals is important. Incorporating enough nutrients and color on your plate while maintaining balance throughout your day and week is ideal for a healthier and happier you!
The 80/20 rule is a sustainable way to practice good nutrition without denying yourself the pleasure of treats or meals you enjoy. It encourages eating healthy 80% of the time and allows you to indulge in less nutrient-dense options 20% of the time. This creates a balance that helps cultivate both a happy and healthy mind.
The 80/20 rule specifically refers to 80% of your foods being whole and unprocessed. These should be foods that increase energy and provide the nutrients your body requires to function properly.
Examples of these foods include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Lean proteins
- Whole grain
- Healthy fats
When considering your 20% of treats or less nutritious meals, these should be foods you enjoy but don’t consume too often. They are often processed items, fast food or sweet treats.
Here are a few examples of what these foods could be:
- Pizza
- Burgers
- Fried foods
- Baked goods
- Desserts
- Pancakes or French toast
- Candy
- Alcohol
The most important thing to remember when practicing the 80/20 rule is to build consistency over time. For example, if you eat pizza for dinner one night, try to make your other meals that day healthy and filled with nutrients.
The picture below shows an example of what practicing the 80/20 rule for a week could look like!
By: Alexandra Bollinger
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