Definition and Measures for Sustainable

Sustainable -- That the behaviors and lifestyle changes adopted as part of diet modification remain elements that can be maintained over time, yet are not so rigid that small bumps in the road throw the “program” offline.

Explanation.  We know that life happens despite our best-made plans.  It is not feasible to expect perfection with a program that perpetuates ongoing lifestyle changes.  Any plan established to guide a healthier lifestyle needs to be fluid enough to incorporate those times when healthier choices are not available, or occasions when we might consciously choose a non-healthy option.  Guidelines need to be created so that that the individual does not feel as if they have failed, and as a consequence, abandons the healthier behavior altogether. 

Measures of 'Sustainable' – CI team members will consider personal triggers to unhealthful eating.  Examples may include family events, celebrations, stressful incidents, etc.  These may be highly personal and private, and do not need to be shared with the group.  With an awareness of potential triggers in mind, participants can then create strategies for minimizing “damage” when they do occur, and subsequently forgiving themselves.

CI team members may also want to incorporate a set number of times per month (or week) that they will allow themselves to deviate from the planned healthy eating regime.  That way, these deviations can be easily tracked and analyzed for potential future modification.