Body Fuel vs Soul Fuel - My 90/10 Approach

My clients always ask if they'll be able to enjoy their favorite foods without restriction. Finding balance when embarking on a health journey can be challenging. Through my personal gut healing journey, I had to experience a period of restriction to give my body the opportunity to return to balance. This involved eliminating all ultra-processed foods, gluten, alcohol, and sugar from my diet. This period of restriction was crucial because, when trying to heal, we need to provide our bodies with an environment conducive to regaining balance. However, I was also mindful that maintaining such strictness indefinitely would not be feasible. Despite the initial challenges, the dietary changes left me feeling energised, making it difficult to imagine going back to my previous eating habits.

During my third month of gut healing, I began reintroducing more foods into my diet. The impact these foods had on my body was so pronounced—it was shocking to realise that I had been feeling rubbish everyday eating this stuff and had ignored it for so long. This led me to adopt a balanced approach, focusing on foods that fuel my body 90% of the time and foods that fuel my soul 10% of the time.

My "Body Fuel" consists of a predominantly whole-food diet. Ninety percent of the week, I consume meals that I’ve prepared at home. This practice allows me to control what I put into my body, and the food I make is both simple and delicious. This way of eating fuels my body to perform optimally, providing me with energy, focus, clarity, and a sense of well-being. It supports my mental, spiritual, and emotional health, in addition to my physical health.

However, I also relish going out for dinner and indulging in desserts! Since I cook most of the time, I treat myself to dining out once or twice a week, giving myself a well-deserved break. I refer to this as my "Soul Fuel." Eating out means I can't control all the ingredients, so regardless of my order, I count this as my 10%. When I opt for desserts or cakes, I choose places where I know the items are homemade, like local cafes or bakeries. I prefer local restaurants over chains, as supporting local businesses is important to me, and their food tends to be less processed.

This approach allows me to enjoy my Soul Fuel without guilt and truly savor it. When I permitted myself to indulge every day, the treats weren't special anymore. By prioritising my Body Fuel and allowing myself that 10% of Soul Fuel, I maintain my body's balance, keep myself feeling great, and live free from the constraints of perpetual restriction.

Want help reflecting on how the food you eat daily fuels your body and finding the balance that works for you? As an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, I work with my clients to help them achieve their health goals sustainably. Book a free discovery call today to find out more about how I can help you become the best version of yourself.