please Help! what will treats do to me?

Hi everyone, i am 14 years old and really need some advice!! ...

So, basically-

I eat my five a day. But i have quite alot of calories so do i need more? I usually have 3 fruits and 2 veg, but is more necessary?

I try to eat multigrain/ wholemeal whenever possible, have 3 dairy servings and eat as much protein as i can.

BUT.... my question is this....

If I have 2 or 3 treats (like chocolate or cake or sweets or ice cream) a day- will i become unhealthy?

I know i have to be careful not to overdo calories because of weight gain, but after reading some articles i have become anxious and worried about "balanced" diet. I am sooo scared of treats and was hoping for some feedback as to what is ACTUALLY wrong with them if i am eating a reasonably healthy diet too (explained above).

I would really appreciate feedback.

thank you xxx

Hey,

I think the reply you got to your other thread about nutrition was helpful - basically, try not to stress about it. If you're eating fruit and veggies most days, and try to eat a mixture of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, you should be fine.

And please try to stop thinking about different kinds of food as 'good' and 'bad' - it's just food, and everything you eat serves a purpose, it's not just about getting energy and nutrients, it's about nurturing and feeding your mind too. So some foods which we tend to think about as less good for the body might instead be good for the mind, because it tastes good and provides enjoyment. Luckily there is usually some physical benefit to most foods too, even if it's "just" providing energy. I eat ice cream and (dark) chocolate pretty much every day. I also eat veggies pretty much every day. And cheese, butter, grains, eggs, oil, fruit, nuts, etc etc. But some days I might just eat bread, yoghurt, and chocolate all day. It's not the end of the world and it won't harm me.

Also, please trust your body. It knows what to do with the food you give it. It will get what it needs out of it. The protein in ice cream is still protein, even if there is a lot of sugar added. And the sugar in ice cream will still provide energy/fuel to your body, even if it is added for flavour.

Just to try to give you some peace of mind though - I think your diet sounds well balanced. If you're really concerned about the amount of 'treat' foods you are having, one solution is to make things like cake,biscuits, and ice cream yourself, that way you know it's less processed and no 'weird' ingredients - just basic things like cream, sugar, butter, milk, cocoa powder, etc (depending on what you're making).

Finally, are you enjoying the food your eating? Do you feel like you have enough energy? Do you feel well, physically and mentally? If so, i wouldn't worry. I know it's hard to stop obsessing about food, but it's like everything, it becomes easier the more you practice. So just try to let go of these worries and just eat and enjoy life.