Fit, healthy people who have a good relationship with food don’t need other people to tell them exactly what to eat at all times.

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Living a fit and healthy life doesn’t require perfection, either.

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If you are using a meal plan: That’s OK.

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Some people like prescriptions, especially if they are working towards a specific short-term goal, like cutting weight to compete in a bodybuilding competition, ensuring enough nutrients to support a healthy pregnancy or fueling their triathlon performance.

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Keep it short-lived.

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Meal plans are supposed to be temporary, working towards a short-term goal.

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Keep it real.

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As much as possible, try to make the meal plan fit your real life, not the other way around.