The first reason being that you want to break the mindset that there is one and only one right way for you to eat. Don't think of yourself in terms of "Oh, I'm a Lo-Carber" or "Oh, I can't eat anything that has a J or T in the name." Over time you will find a program that works for you on a regular basis but there will be times when your goals change. Sometimes you need quick weight loss and one of the weight loss programs will be better for you than the others.



A low carb diet can be great for dropping a few pounds and getting back into that little black dress for the big party. That same program may not suit you for maintaining your weight. Remember, you can't lose weight forever and if you are always eating like you are trying for weight loss you are not developing the right mindset for getting to your goal weight and maintaining it.

When you have figured out which programs work for you, use them as you need. Some weight loss programs are better than others depending on the situation. Go low carb for a month or two. Then enjoy a higher carb diet to get the most out of the holidays. There are no restrictions on what you can do with this and it can make life easier knowing that.

The second reason is that you will end up cutting out of your diet a whole bunch of healthy foods... forever. Many of those restricted foods have great health benefits when eaten as part of an overall sensible eating plan. Even cake in moderation is good for the soul. I said in moderation, stop trying to rationalize that 1/2 dozen chocolate glazed donuts. There are not enough anti-oxidants in chocolate to justify it.

The third reason is that you will unnecessarily complicate your life with restrictions and variety is the spice of life. When going out to eat or to a party you can't always control what is available. And once you start on the path of diet envy from watching other people enjoying themselves and you can't have one little taste it is hard to stay on track. Unless you have a medical or religious reason don't deprive yourself.

In addition to keeping things interesting you avoid some diet pitfalls. Keep in mind that your thoughts follow your actions. If your actions are not in alignment with your thoughts you create emotional conflict. For example if you think of yourself as an "Anti-J/T Food" dieter and then have a Tuna steak for dinner followed up with some soothing Tea you may start mentally whipping yourself and that can derail your future efforts. You get enough grief from your parents don't start creating more problems for yourself.

Find a few different weight loss programs that work for you and use them when you like. Some are more adaptable to a maintenance diet than others and some can help you shed fat like magic. Ultimately, don't complicate your life through unnecessary restriction. Life is too short and you need the little pleasures along the way.