Can You Really Eat Cookies on a Diet?

Is it possible to have a healthy diet without giving up things you love?

In her radio show on 103FM, Dr. Maya Rozman discussed a diet plan she created for a young woman that included six Oreo cookies per day. Between meals, the woman could choose to have two cookies or a piece of fruit.

"I believe in incorporating 'soul food' into our diet plan," explains Dr. Rozman. "It gives us the strength and the ability to stick with the process for the long haul. If someone feels deprived, constantly longing for what they can't have, they're likely to give up. Allowing a small amount of cookies makes staying on track more feasible."

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According to her, it's important to look at the bigger picture:

"If a diet includes lots of proteins (yogurt, fish and veggies, eggs, tuna), then it's possible to incorporate 'soul food' into the menu three times a day, even if it's not the healthiest choice.

While I would prefer she eats almonds, peanuts or fruits, in the beginning, to avoid feeling deprived, I'm in favor of mixing it up.

In conclusion, Dr. Rozman explained the concept of allowing snacking between meals:

"Over time, she’ll likely notice for herself that it might not be worthwhile, not fitting, and maybe not worth putting into her body. When someone comes to that realization on their own, it’s better than imposing an extreme ban. No extreme method works."

Read more on this topic:

Allowed or Not: Should You Eat Fruit on a Diet?

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