Written by Marika Haag

In nutrition coaching, when unpacking clients' food diaries and discussing alcohol or treats, you will often hear them say 'you have to enjoy life'. We can all agree that life should be enjoyed, but there are many ways.

A client of nutrition coaching often feels that their diet is healthy, and often it is. Many people also have clear meal times, but the quality and quantity of food can be wrong. Evenings can be spent indulging and watching films. If eating treats is a daily habit, it has become an everyday habit. Is it then no longer a way of enjoying life?

Many also have a taste for alcohol at the end of the day. Alcohol is seen as a way to relax and often the reason is a hard day. In this way, many people give themselves permission to indulge or drink alcohol every day. However, this habit often leads to weight gain and possibly even more serious health problems and lifestyle diseases. The most important question is: do you want to enjoy a healthy and healthy life?

Today, it is already known that sugar and fast carbohydrates, as well as alcohol, are among the most destructive and disease-causing substances in the body. The body's glycation process causes premature ageing, nervous system problems, fatty liver disease and diabetes, among other things. Therefore, sugary treats should be reserved for special occasions and should only be consumed on special occasions. Reducing sugar and fast carbohydrates from the diet is a health act and has only positive health benefits.

Enjoying life can also mean, for example, experiencing or learning something new, pampering oneself with different services, or relaxing and giving up performing. But the most important thing is to enjoy life in a healthy way.

Tips from a nutrition coach:

• Leave the sweets and other treats in the shop and buy fresh fruit and berries instead. In the long run, you'll see the effects in things like the condition and colour of your facial skin.
• Eat plenty of vegetables and greens, even raw. Eating fresh food improves gut health and has an overall impact on your health.
• Avoid snacks and fast food, take time to cook and eat slowly and mindfully.
• Manage stress by practising gentle sports, calming down at night and doing breathing exercises.
• Invest in sleep, its quality and duration. Avoid eating too late and turn off your smart devices early.

If you need help with your nutrition, contact a personal trainer at your centre who can help you with nutrition coaching. Book an appointment for a free exercise consultation or ask your centre's customer service for the coach's contact details.