When a person struggles to resist foods that are overwhelmingly sweet or salty, experts often identify this as a form of food addiction. Nutritionist Nuria Dianova notes that gradually tapering off such items is possible, provided a challenge is set that helps the palate relearn subtler flavors. In Canada and the United States, this approach is discussed as a practical path to restore taste sensitivity rather than an outright elimination. Dianova emphasized that the goal is to reshape the relationship with taste, not to sever it entirely, and that small, steady steps can yield lasting changes. This perspective was shared with Public News Service, underscoring a broader public health message about mindful eating and taste retraining.
According to Dianova, many people gravitate toward intense flavors partly out of habit and partly as a way to compensate for emotional gaps. The underlying idea is to explore the emotional drivers behind cravings, so that the plan to reduce salt and sugar becomes part of a larger strategy for healthier living. The nutritionist recommends a gradual reduction rather than abrupt cutoffs, making it easier to adapt and maintain over time. In the context of public guidance, this approach is framed as a stepwise journey rather than a single drastic change.
She advises a simple, practical starting point: reduce the amount of salt and sugar in meals for a defined period, without feeling the need to eliminate them completely. The focus is on recalibrating taste receptors so they respond to more balanced flavors. Within two to three weeks, the palate can begin to notice salt, sugar, and glutamate at lower levels, reflecting a renewal of taste perception rather than an abrupt physiological shift.
For example, choosing sausages less frequently and incorporating herbs and natural spices into meat dishes can shift taste preferences over time. Dianova notes that patients who follow this approach often report meaningful changes in their eating habits. The practical takeaway is that flavor can be rediscovered through mindful modification of everyday choices, rather than through deprivation alone.
Nutritionists also warn that poor eating habits can keep a person in a constant state of hunger. Sleep deprivation, stress, and high intake of carbohydrate-rich foods, such as chocolate or cake, can contribute to persistent cravings. Canadian and American health professionals alike emphasize building a balanced routine that supports satiety, mood stability, and energy levels. This broader guidance aligns with public health recommendations to reduce ultra-processed foods and prioritize nutrient-dense options.
The broader conversation around healthy menus for holidays and celebrations has also gained attention. While the New Year’s table often features indulgent dishes, experts suggest small, manageable changes that still honor tradition. The aim is to foster healthier eating patterns without feeling restricted by rigid rules, making long-term adherence more feasible for individuals and families alike.