Let me tell you something about why I love OMAD (one meal a day). It’s not just about the health benefits, or even the weight loss—it’s about the freedom. I don’t live with a list of diet rules taped to my fridge anymore, and because of that, I don’t feel like I’m constantly breaking them.
Take Halloween, for example. I love candy. Always have. But in my “diet brain” days, candy was usually off-limits. That made every holiday feel like I was missing out. Worse, if I did give in, it wasn’t just a piece of candy—it was the whole bag. I’d think, “Well, I blew it… might as well enjoy it now because tomorrow it’s back to restriction.” You know that cycle, right? The guilt, the overdoing it, the I’ll never touch this again so I’d better get it all in now feeling. 😩
Why “Forbidden” Foods Backfire
There’s actually a psychological explanation for this. When something is labeled forbidden, it becomes more desirable. Research has shown that strict food rules and restriction can increase cravings and the likelihood of overeating (Polivy & Herman, 2005). It’s called the “forbidden fruit effect”—tell yourself you can’t have it, and your brain wants it even more. Eventually, most of us rebel against the rules.
That’s where OMAD is such a gift. I don’t follow a diet rulebook anymore. I simply wait until my eating window, and then everything’s on the table—literally. Gummy bears? Sure. A slice of caramel apple? Yup. Almond Joy (with the official “mom tax” on my kids’ Halloween stash 😉)? Absolutely.
Why It Feels Different Now
The magic is, I can have these foods without spiraling. I’m not in “screw it, I already messed up” mode anymore, because there are no rules to break. I don’t need to rebel against OMAD—because it isn’t a list of “eat this, not that.” It’s simply a rhythm of when I eat, not what I eat.
And because I know I can enjoy candy tomorrow too, I don’t feel that “last chance” panic that used to send me into a sugar frenzy. I can have a few gummy bears, feel content, and move on. The candy is fun again—not stressful.
OMAD Makes Food Joyful Again
That’s the biggest joy of OMAD for me: it’s not about perfection or punishment. It’s about freedom, simplicity, and actually enjoying life. Whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or just a Tuesday, I don’t have to miss out. Food fits into my life now without all the guilt.
So when Halloween rolls around, I’ll happily collect my “mom tax” Almond Joy and enjoy it with a smile—no rebellion, no guilt, just joy.
Here’s to you, friend. May your fasting be freeing, and your candy be sweet. 🎃🍬
Citation:
Polivy, J., & Herman, C. P. (2005). Dieting and binging: A causal analysis. American Psychologist, 40(2), 193–201.
