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Keep A Food Diary
The food diary is a wonderful tool that makes us aware of our eating habits. If you don’t really want to know what you eat, the idea of keeping track may be scary—and perhaps even unnecessary. But keeping a food diary is the most reliable and accurate way to connect what we eat and our mental and physical condition.
In the comments section, note how you are feeling. Here are some ideas suggested by the Institute for Integrative Nutrition:
Physical symptoms:
1. Clues for imbalance: headaches, stomach pain, muscle cramps, coughing, fatigue, insomnia, restlessness, shakiness, muscle weakness, lack of concentration, pallor.
2. Clues for balance: bright eyes, hunger, stamina, natural deep breathing, high energy, restful sleep, focus, alertness, strength, good attention span, good color.
Emotional symptoms:
1. Clues for imbalance: anxious, bored, scared, mad, sad, depressed, scattered, restless, irritable, agitated, hyper.
2. Clues for balance: confident, excited, energized, humorous, happy, interested, focused, calm, relaxed, easygoing, patient.
Day: ______________
When
(date / time)
Food
(plus amount of food)
Comments
(mental/physical/mood)
Breakfast
A.M. Snack(s)
Lunch
P.M. Snack(s)
Dinner
Evening Snack(s)
Other
(beverages, alcohol, candy, etc.)
If you forget to record a meal, or even an entire day, just pick up where you are now.
