The 80-20 Rule

1 – Learn how to fill your plate Fill your plate with veggies first, then add whole grains and legumes and some healthy lean protein, like turkey…

Do you know what would be ideal? It would be ideal if you could diet without dieting or at least diet without it feeling like you’re missing out on all the fun.

That’s why so many celebrities love the 80-20 dieting concept. It’s the idea that you eat 80% clean, healthy food for your body, and 20% of food that makes your heart happy.

It’s great because it removes the guilt from ‘cheat days’ and helps you build a healthier and more realistic long-term habit.

Confused about what 80/20 looks like in reality? Well, let us tell you what it isn’t. It’s not as simple as eating well during the week and letting loose at the weekends; it’s actually a lot more like a day and a half a week, or four cheat meals a week.

Have we got your attention?

Here are a few quick tips if you’re thinking about trying the 80/20 way of eating:

1 – Learn how to fill your plate

Fill your plate with veggies first, then add whole grains and legumes and some healthy lean protein, like turkey or fish.

2 – Keep an eye on your portion size

Even though it is harder to do, it’s definitely still possible to overeat the right foods. Use smaller plates, don’t eat directly out of the packaging; always set out in a plate or bowl the amount you’d like to eat beforehand, or if you’re still really struggling, weigh and measure your food until you comfortable enough with the amounts to be able to eyeball it.

3 – Exercise

While the 80/20 rule is great for helping you to form better eating habits, if you want bigger results, you have to factor in exercise too. 150 minutes a week of vigorous exercise should be enough to get you going, but you can also choose to exercise on all the days you eat well and relax on the days where you don’t have to.

Are you interested in trying out the 80/20 approach? Use the app for help with portion sizes and tips on what to eat!

All of the content and media on Lifesum is created and published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Users should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice. If you have or think you are at risk of developing an eating disorder, do not use the Lifesum app and seek immediate medical help.