At Intelligent Gourmet, we don’t jump on diet trends, and we don’t think “skinny” is the ideal. We appreciate good health in all its forms, so if you’re eating clean, staying active, and loving life, we support you! One aspect of health, however, is developing a healthy relationship with food. The “Intuitive Eating” approach aims to do just that by encouraging people to eat when they’re hungry, and stop when they’re full.

It sounds simple, doesn’t it? In my opinion, the best things in life always are!

In our social-eating society (and as an Italian, I understand social eating on a deep level), eating only when you’re hungry and stopping when your full can be a real challenge. But, if you can manage it, you might never need to diet again.

The Rules of Intuitive Eating

• No foods are off-limits.
• Eat want your body craves, but only when you feel hungry. No guilt allowed!
• Stop eating when you no longer feel hungry.

Now, I would put a few caveats in place, because I believe this method works best when your body chemistry is balanced with good nutrition. If you eat nothing but brownies all day, or any other sugar and carb-filled processed food, science shows that you will actually feel hungrier than if you ate something more balanced (even a home-made brownie with walnuts is better!). I would also beware of sugary and alcoholic drinks that add calories without filling you up. However, if you pair the Intuitive Eating philosophy with a whole foods diet, I think it could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship – and a beautiful body.

Let me know if you try it!