Ditch the diet
Tired of starting the year with big intentions that fade by February? Local holistic wellness coach and yoga teacher Alex Ballagh, host of the Real World Wellness podcast, explains how to make 2026 the year you eat for good.
When it comes to New Year’s resolutions and healthy eating, many of us feel like a stuck record. Year after year we set unrealistically high expectations, only to fall short by February and end up feeling guilty.
This year is different. This is the year we create realistic, sustainable habits that work in the real world – habits that fit our lives, that we can stick to, and that are far more effective because of it. My biggest piece of advice for optimising your nutrition this year? Let go of rules and rigidity. Aim for a holistic, balanced approach. Here are my six top tips:
- Start strong with a protein-rich breakfast. Protein helps regulate blood sugar, keeps us fuller for longer, and provides sustained energy (goodbye 11am cheese scone cravings).
- Eat the rainbow daily. The more colourful fruit and vegetables you include, the more diverse your gut bacteria – and the happier and healthier you’ll feel. These foods are also rich in fibre and antioxidants that support cell repair and detoxification.
- Focus on addition rather than elimination. Instead of restricting foods and feeling trapped by ‘diet’ rules, look for simple ways to add nourishment. Sprinkle nuts or seeds on breakfast, add greens to your lunch, sip a quality tea with your afternoon snack, or drizzle apple cider vinegar over a salad. You’ll soon crave foods that make you feel good.
- Hydrate, properly. Many of us spend our days mildly dehydrated, which impacts every system in the body. Thirst is often mistaken for hunger, so prioritise water (bonus points for adding electrolytes). Start your day by downing a full bottle as soon as you wake.
- Embrace snacks. Healthy, satiating snacks can stabilise blood sugar and prevent that 3pm crash. If your body is telling you it’s hungry, listen. Think Greek yoghurt and fruit, cottage cheese and crackers, nut butter balls, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Get clear on your ‘why’. Whether it’s more energy for the kids, better health, or simply feeling good in your body, that reason will carry you through the harder days. It’s never too late to begin again – with self-compassion and grace.
Inspired to prioritise you? Register for Alex’s Nutrition 101 Health Talk on 28 January, 7pm. A relaxed one-hour session on the foundations of healthy eating. $20 koha. Book at soulstudio.co.nz/whats-on/
