HOUSTON – As the new year unfolds, many people grapple with the age-old tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. However, statistics suggest that only a small percentage of individuals stick to their As the new year unfolds, many people find themselves grappling with the age-old tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. However, statistics suggest that only a small percentage of individuals stick to their resolutions throughout the year. Nutrition coach Karla Rojas joined Houston Life’s Melanie Camp to share insights on how to make meaningful changes in 2025 without succumbing to the pressures of diet culture. Watch more in the video above!
Karla Rojas, who has a background in nutrition, emphasized the importance of moving away from restrictive diets. “I studied nutrition in Mexico and initially focused on prescribed diets,” she explained. However, a personal struggle with an eating disorder led her to reevaluate her approach. Rojas now advocates for balanced plates and intuitive eating, encouraging people to listen to their bodies’ needs.
Rojas suggests that a balanced plate should consist of one-third vegetables, one-third protein, and one-third carbohydrates, with healthy fats like olive oil included. She reassures that carbohydrates, including bread, are not the enemy. “If you don’t eat it, your body will feel it,” she said, emphasizing the importance of feeling your body and responding to its needs.
Rojas promotes intuitive eating, which involves eating without judgment and tuning into the body’s signals. “It’s a non-diet approach where you listen to your necessities,” she explained. This means acknowledging cravings and understanding that they might signal a need for nourishment.
For those who worry about indulging in sweets, Rojas advises that intuitive eating doesn’t mean constant indulgence. “When you give your body what it wants, it’s not always going to be cake,” she noted. Instead, cravings can be a cue to explore other nourishing options.
As the conversation shifted to forming new habits, Rojas encouraged starting with small changes. “If you want to exercise, start with ten minutes,” she suggested. This approach also applies to dietary changes, like gradually incorporating more vegetables into meals.
Ultimately, Rojas emphasizes the importance of self-compassion in 2025. “Practice self-compassion,” she advised, urging individuals to treat themselves with the same kindness they extend to others. Being gentle with oneself and setting realistic goals makes the journey toward a healthier lifestyle more attainable.
For those interested in following Karla Rojas and her tips, links are available on the “Houston Life” website. As 2025 begins, embracing small, sustainable changes and practicing self-compassion can lead to a more fulfilling year.