Everything in moderation is attractive advice, but also a trap.
Instead, nutritionists use the concept of moderation as a tool for managing cravings.
Kudos to these benevolent nutritionists swooping in with advice to help people manage their cravings!
Instead of following good advice, you’re able to pretend that youre following it already.
We also use this rule to avoid dealing withharsh truths(What if Idoeat too much bacon?).
Im fine, though.
Junk Food Companies Love Moderation
Not convinced?
Think about this: The junk food companieslovethe concept of moderation.
And those food groups?
We also know that youcant rely on exerciseto keep you healthy if youre eating crap.
The National Confectioners Association takes the illusion of moderation a step farther.
A single fun size candy bar.
Yet on the same web site, they offer advice onhow to get people to impulse-buy more candy.
(The World Health Organizationrecommends half that amount).
But they dontactuallystand behind that limit.
In other words, the claims about moderation are lip service without any intention to commit.
FInd a Better Rule
Everything in moderation is a crappy rule to live by.
But its great asinspirationfor coming up with rules that can help you in the long run.
You canbe mindful of your cravings and create triggerstoredirect yourself to better choices.
you’re free to even ditch the moderation mindset entirely anddeclare certain foods off-limits.
Which strategy you choose depends on your goals.
And be honest with others too: dont dismiss dietary advice with Duh, everything in moderation.
Instead tell the truth: Thats probably good advice, but Im not going to follow it.
Illustration by Tara Jacoby.
