When you’re going on a diet, one enemy you have to face is the slippery slope. For those who don’t know, the slippery slope is a logical fallacy, which states that if one action is taken, it will inevitably lead to an even worse action, and so on, until it reaches it something terrible.
In dieting, the slippery slope is quite real. If you’ve dieted, then chances are, you’ve encountered it. You’re doing well on your diet, but then a friend invites you to get some food. You try to eat well at that restaurant, but there’s nothing healthy. So, you decide to make an exception. Then you get dessert. Then you get some drinks. Then you eat more the next day due to the guilt, and soon you’re back to your old habits.
It can happen, but here are some ways to avoid it.
You Are Going to Slip Up
The truth is that no matter how well you follow your diet, you’re going to make a mistake. As we mentioned, a party or a day out with friends is going to happen, and you’re going to eat a lot of food. One slip-up isn’t going to ruin your diet but eating more is. If you’ve had a night of bad eating, or you accidentally ate one bad food item, accept it and continue dieting, fasting, or whatever it takes.
A Cheat Day is Good
Consider having a cheat day once every week or every other week. For one thing, mixing up how many calories you eat can be a boost in metabolism. For another, having a day to give into temptation can satisfy any cravings. However, they aren’t for everyone. You need to make sure you eat normally the next day. Don’t be someone who has two cheat days, then three.
Practice Mindfulness
Sometimes, we can eat whenever we’re not thinking. How many of us have snacked due to depression or something similar? Practicing mindfulness can help you stay aware in the present and make your choices much clearer. When you do slip up, mindfulness can teach you not to dwell or your mistakes and focus on the present. You can practice mindfulness through controlled breathing and through examining your surroundings.
Always Keep a Log
Keeping a log of the foods you eat and how many calories you’re consuming is important. Not only can it help you figure out how much you eat every day, but it can help you hold yourself accountable should you go down a slippery slope.
Seek Help!
If you have an eating addiction, there is no shame in talking to a counselor or a therapist and discussing it with them. Online therapy can help with this, and you can speak to a counselor whenever you feel temptation. Resources such as BetterHelp are revolutionizing how we speak to licensed therapists, and if you’re having trouble with a diet, they can help you. Speak to a licensed therapist and avoid that slippery slope.
Marie Miguel Biography
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
