Why Planning Dessert Might Be the Key to Reaching Your Weight Loss Goals

"What if, when planning your meals, you started with dessert and built your day around it?"

My client looked at me with wide eyes.
“Wait, what? But I shouldn’t be eating dessert if I want to lose weight.”

As a dietitian, I hear this kind of response all the time. We’ve been told for so long that weight loss requires cutting out “bad” foods, especially sweets. But here’s the truth: trying to be perfect with your eating is one of the fastest ways to fail.

Recently I saw a question posted on social media:
“What do you think is the number one reason people fail to achieve their weight loss goals?”

There are many possible answers, but the one I shared on this particular day…Being too rigid about what’s allowed.

Restriction Doesn’t Work (At Least, Not for Long)

When we label certain foods as “off-limits,” we set ourselves up for an exhausting cycle. At first, we might feel in control, even proud of our discipline. But over time, cravings build. We think more about the foods we’re avoiding. Eventually, the temptation becomes overwhelming and we give in.

But because those foods were labeled as “bad,” we don’t just eat them, we binge, feel guilty, and tell ourselves we’ve failed. That cycle has nothing to do with willpower and everything to do with restriction.

The Science Is Clear

Despite all the noise, weight loss still comes down to one basic principle: You need to be in a consistent calorie deficit. That’s it. You don’t have to cut carbs, avoid sugar, or give up dessert forever. You simply need to create an energy deficit, and how you do that can (and should) reflect your real life.

Which brings me back to dessert.

If dessert is something you love, then yes, you should be eating dessert as part of your weight loss strategy. Why? Because if including something sweet each day helps you stay consistent, satisfied, and sane while still maintaining a calorie deficit, that’s the most effective and sustainable plan for you.

Flexibility Is a Strategy, Not a Weakness

If you’re tired of feeling like you're constantly starting over or “failing” because you can’t stick to a restrictive plan, maybe the problem isn’t you, maybe it’s the plan.

A better approach is one that:

• Includes the foods you love (without guilt)

• Supports your body and mind

• Feels realistic for your lifestyle

• Helps you build consistency over time

You don’t need to choose between results and enjoyment. You can have both.

Ready for a Better Way?

If you’re done with restrictive dieting and ready to build a plan that works with your life instead of against it, I can help. Let’ me help you create a plan that includes dessert, and whatever else brings you joy.

Schedule a no cost, no obligation call today and let’s talk about what a sustainable, realistic plan would look like for you.