“Wellness without extremes” is a big part of how I eat and how I develop recipes. Here’s what it actually means to me, and why you’ll never see me calling a food “good” or “bad.”
Nutritionist’s note
This is my philosophy, not a meal plan. If you have a medical condition or specific goals, the best next step is working with a professional who knows your situation.
Maria · Nutritionist, UACJ 2020
What “wellness without extremes” means to me
To me, it means not obsessing over food and still being able to enjoy family dinners, travel, spontaneous plans and birthday cake without second thoughts. I want you to feel freedom and joy around food, and to realize that balanced eating can be surprisingly delicious.
Why I skip the “good” and “bad” labels
I studied nutrition because of the power food has to help the body stay healthier, perform well, recover and thrive. Labeling foods as good or bad doesn’t help with any of that. It usually just adds guilt, and guilt is not a nutrient.
Instead, I think about the bigger picture: what I’m eating across the day and the week, how I’m feeling, how I’m training, and what I’m genuinely craving.
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Instead of asking… |
I like to ask… |
|---|---|
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Is this food good or bad? |
What does this meal give me today? |
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Should I skip dessert? |
How can I enjoy it without second thoughts? |
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How do I cut this out? |
How can I make it more balanced, and still delicious? |
So why high-protein and lower-sugar recipes?
Because I love them, and because they help support an active life. A protein cookie skillet or a lower-sugar blondie isn’t about “fixing” dessert. It’s another delicious option, right next to the birthday cake.
What this looks like on my plate
- Balanced, approachable meals most of the time, often inspired by my Mexican heritage, the seasons and what’s already in my fridge.
- Room for the fun stuff: the family meal, the travel food, the birthday cake.
- Food that supports how I move. I run and train for HYROX, so I think about fueling and recovery, in a sustainable way, not a perfect one.
A few recipes that sum it up
This article is general nutrition information based on my background and experience. It isn’t individualized medical or nutrition advice; if you have a medical condition or specific needs, please work with your own healthcare professional.
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