Diet & Nutrition: How to re-train your brain

Referred to as neuroplastic, the human brain is capable of changing its structure in order to create and alter new and existing neural pathways - it has the ability to adapt to new experiences, learn new skills and information and create new memories and habits.

Although the habits developed throughout childhood play a key role in our psychological relationship with food, exercise, weight, dietary habits and the way in which we perceive our body and appearance, it is not impossible to re-train the brain in order to develop healthier habits, and create a healthier relationship with ourselves. In fact, studies indicate that the brain has the ability to form a new habit in as little as 18-66 days - a small period of perseverance considering many are convinced that old habits take a lifetime to break! So, just how is one meant to 're-train' their brain?

As a previously larger, image conscious child and teenager obsessed with weight, scales and the effect 'bad' food would have on my body, the following tips have helped considerably in my battle to break bad habits:

• start small - successful, sustainable weight loss and maintenance, healthy dietary habits and a positive body image and perception of food aren't created over night - they require months of hard work, psychological strength, determination and motivation. By starting small and gradually incorporating realistic routines info daily life over a period of time, your brain will quickly adjust and develop new habits. Whether it's eating breakfast every morning, exercising every day or even consuming three regular meals, tacking one bad habit before the next will prove invaluable.
• oust the obsessions - habits can quickly develop into an obsession. Scales, calories and carb counting all resemble one thing - an unhealthy and detrimental habit that has the ability to rapidly spiral out of control and develop into a religious routine that feels impossible to break.
Focus on developing a habit of using your clothes as an indication of weight and listen to your body - a fascinating machine and a 'calorie counter' in its own right that will inform you when it's full, lacking in nutrients and energy and feeling sluggish after being fed the wrong food and drink sources.
• say cheerio to your childhood - happy, positive memories are great, but the unhealthy routines, habits and body hatred that develops throughout our childhood and teenage years aren't.
Take the psychological relationship you once had with food and your body with a pinch of salt. We're all susceptible to the development of unhealthy habits throughout our childhood, but as an adult, we have the freedom, ability and opportunity to create new healthier ones and be a role model for our own children - particularly girls who are most susceptible to developing a negative attitude towards their body and weight. Forget your past and focus on creating a happier, healthier future full of the positive habits, change and freedom that was once controlled by your own parents.