There are several of my clients who are constantly on some sort of diet. This makes things…interesting when I plan menus with them. It changes not only the food but how it is prepared, how it is presented- everything.
I have always wondered, for those who are constantly dieting, usually to loose weight, do they actually like food? In todays society, with food being available easily, even if it is over priced of some items, it is easy to just grab something and munch without thinking of what you are actually eating. That makes me sad to think that those who are eating just to eat, whether it is compulsive or for a diet, my not be paying attention to what they are eating and are then not getting everything from the experience they could.
This may sound odd, but I would rather not feed someone who shovels things into their face without looking at what they are eating. The food is more than just fuel. It is color and texture and scent. The sound of it being cut or chewed changes how you feel. The way it is presented can change it from just food to a meal.
So, when I talk to clients, I try to focus them on aspects of the food if they seem to be obsessing on the amount or type of food we are discussing. How crunchy is it? Is it colorful? Do you have a range of types of food, from soup to dessert? I try to present what they re asking for as a meal plan or regimen, not a diet. A diet is too restrictive. A regimen has possibilities.
Chef Rena