There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Way to Eat

Let’s play a quick game: What’s healthier — applesauce or an apple?

If your brain jumped to “apple” right away, you’re definitely not alone. Most of us have internalized all kinds of messages about what foods are “better,” “cleaner,” or “more nutritious.”

But here’s the thing: when it comes to nutrition and food choices, the answer is almost always…

It depends.

The Context Matters

Let’s say you’re recovering from a stomach bug and need something easy on digestion — in that situation, applesauce might be exactly what your body needs. On the other hand, maybe you’re looking for something with a bit more fiber to help with a recent bout of constipation — you might want to try the apple.

Neither is right or wrong. Neither is "healthy" or "unhealthy." They’re just… different.

What Your Body Needs Can Change

What’s “healthy” for one person might not be for another. And even for you, your needs might change from day to day.

Maybe you need quick energy before a workout. Maybe you're just in the mood for applesauce. Maybe you want the apple with peanut butter for a more interesting and filling snack.

This is one reason why rigid food rules can be so limiting — they don’t leave room for your body’s natural fluctuations, what you are in the mood for, or individual context.

At New Paths Nutrition, we specialize in helping clients break free from diet rules and reconnect with their own inner wisdom around food. Whether you're navigating recovery from an eating disorder or exploring intuitive eating for the first time, we’re here to support you.

Let’s Reframe the Question

Instead of asking:

“What’s the healthiest option?”

What if we asked:

• What’s going to feel best in my body right now?

• What do I need physically, emotionally, or practically from this snack or meal?

Nutrition doesn’t need to be black-and-white. And the more we can zoom out and look at the bigger picture — the more freedom we create.

Looking for Nutrition Counseling in Charlotte, NC?

If you’re working on unlearning all-or-nothing food rules or want to feel more confident in your version of healthy, we’d love to support you.

We offer eating disorder nutrition counseling, intuitive eating support, and a compassionate, non-diet approach to wellness — both in person in Charlotte, North Carolina, and virtually across several states, including North Carolina and South Carolina.

👉 Reach out here to book a session or schedule a discovery call. We’ll be in touch soon 🧡