One of the things I learned from my nutritionist is that low-fat is not always the best choice.

I used to buy non-fat milk, yogurt, salad dressing. Fat in dairy products or oil just seemed a waste of calories to me. Did you know that a tablespoon of olive oil has 119 calories? Why would I waste 119 calories on a measly tablespoon of oil. Why would I eat a yogurt that has twice the calories of a nonfat yogurt? That is how I used to think.

Until my nutritionist told me to stop consuming non-fat dairy products and to make sure I get at least one tablespoon of healthy fats, such as olive oil per day. I already knew that fat is important for the body, even when you are trying to lose weight. But I reckoned, I did not need it from dairy or other food that non-fat alternatives exist for.

I learned that the 1.5% – 3.5% yogurt has important amino acids that nonfat yogurt doesn’t. For me, incorporating plain yogurt into my diet actually started a change in my mindset.

I decided that I would pay less attention to always eating the product that is lowest in fat. I decided that taste mattered as well. I found out that not all 3.5% yogurts taste the same, and that I like the one from one grocery store best, even though it has more calories than the yogurt from another. I decided that those 20 calories were worth it, because the yogurt tastes so much better, so much creamier.

But it didn’t stop at yogurt. I decided that I’d rather eat less diet products, more ‘normal’ products, and instead cut down on the amount I have. Quality over quantity. It doesn’t always mean the product is healthier or less processed, though I am also working on eating less processed food, usually buying plain yogurt instead of the flavored kind. I am striving for normal eating habits, and getting away from diet products is part of that. Turns out I still do fine with my calories. Actually using olive oil in my salad or eating a 3.5% fat yogurt does not mean I will be starving at the end of the day.

It may be psychological, but I also feel happier knowing I am not eating low-fat products as much anymore. The food usually tastes better, and I just feel happier and more relaxed eating normal products. I still check the nutrition facts at the grocery store, I still make smart choices, but I limit myself less in my food choices. I feel more mentally healthy and free for it, and I think this is really good progress on the journey to healthy, normal eating habits.