It seems like all of the worst advice I have heard has come from nutritionists. I really think we need some "alternative" nutritionists out there. Ones that don't rely on structuring a diet by the four food groups, but that can do a detailed nutrient analysis, are thoroughly familiar with food families (taxology, not food groups,) are up on the latest research and testing of various autoimmune and degenerative diseases, etc. And we need people who are going to listen to us and work with what our bodies are telling us. It is so frustrating to hear people who are supposedly trained in nutrition spouting off decades-old theories such as protein complementing, eating spinach for iron, needing grain to survive, etc. I mean, really!

I'm healthier and more fit than I have ever been in my life, and I've pretty much eliminated three of the four food groups I learned in grade one. No grains, meat, or dairy. Of course in the more recent iterations of the food groups, the protein group contains nuts, legumes, soy, etc., and not just meat. And the dairy group includes soy and other substitutes now too. Only don't tell the nutritionists that you don't use dairy substitutes three times a day either - how will you survive? The current USDA "My Plate" includes pseudocereals (buckwheat, quinoa, and amaranth) in the "Grains" group, but no other starchy foods, like potatoes, sweet potatoes, cassava, squash, etc. Why not? Apparently if you don't eat grains, you'll die.

A lot of people that I meet can't believe that a person could be healthy without eating meat. Or without eating gluten. Forget following a low-fat, vegan, grain-free diet (with some other allergies). I've never been to a nutritionist, but I have analysed my diet here and elsewhere, and yes, I get enough of all of my macros, vitamins, and minerals. The only thing that is consistently a bit low is calcium, and that's the topic of a whole 'nother post. Suffice to say I'm not worried about it.

I say find what works for your body and go with it! Always be on the lookout for ways to improve it, of course, but don't eat things that make you sick! No matter what the "professionals" tell you. Find a way to make it work, no matter how unconventional!

It is possible to have a restricted diet and still be happy and satisfied with it. I love to eat, and enjoy coming up with new things that I can eat within my restrictions. I don't have any trouble meeting my calorie requirements with lots of delicious food!