Pizza and Pasta? Yes, I Did, and You Can Too!

As a PFC3 Coach, YES… I eat Pizza and Pasta! In fact, I recently returned from a wonderful week in Italy filled with amazing food, breathtaking sights, and delightful wine. And the best part? I didn't gain any weight, my clothes fit the same, and I feel incredible!

(Let’s be clear - the scale is not a good measurement of your overall health. It’s simply a data point you can use on your journey, as long as the number doesn’t make or break your day.)

If you're curious about how you can achieve the same, keep reading, and I'll share my PFC3 Lifestyle secrets with you.

Secret #1: The PFC3 Lifestyle

One of the key factors that helped me maintain balance during my culinary adventure was the PFC3 lifestyle. I’ve been living it for a dozen years, and it makes a difference! The longer you follow it, the easier it will be for your body to bounce back after an indulgent meal.

As you know, this approach focuses on balancing protein, fat, and carbs in each meal, rather than sticking to a deprivation-based diet. You eat within an hour of waking up and have regular meals every three to four hours until about an hour before bedtime, which contributes to maintaining balance. By adopting this lifestyle, you can savor all the delicious food without stressing about gaining weight.

Secret #2: Mindful Eating

While indulging in the culinary delights of Italy, I practiced mindful eating. For instance, after a cooking class, when we were enjoying the eggplant parm we made, I realized halfway through the dish that I was satisfied and didn't need to finish it all. This mindful approach to eating allows you to enjoy everything (including desserts each day) without feeling the need to overindulge.

Secret #3: Physical Activity

Engaging in physical activity is essential for overall well-being. During my time in Italy, I took advantage of the opportunity to explore the town by going for invigorating hill walks. My daily walks became a fun way to discover new parts of the town while incorporating exercise into my routine.

Secret #4: Quality Ingredients

Although we may not have complete control over the ingredients in our food, making intentional choices can make a difference. In Italy, I noticed a significant difference in the quality of ingredients, such as the flour used to make pasta, which contained less gluten compared to what is commonly found in the United States. And the olive oil—fresh pressed with no additives—was a game changer. Choosing ingredients with fewer additives and pesticides can positively impact our bodies' inflammatory response.

Secret #5: Wine Selection

In Italy, I had the pleasure of enjoying wine made from biodynamically farmed organic grapes. This high-quality wine didn't leave me with any unpleasant effects the next morning. In the United States, we also have the opportunity to choose better-quality wines, which can enhance our overall experience.

The Takeaway: Enjoy Life While Feeling Great

My trip to Italy was an incredible culinary adventure, and the best part is I got to learn how to cook some local recipes, enjoy a great week with my kiddo, and explore a new spot in the world. And because of how I live my life, I also returned feeling great.

By embracing the PFC3 lifestyle, practicing portion control, mindful eating, engaging in physical activity, and making mindful choices about ingredients, you too can enjoy a week of great food without stressing about weight gain.

Remember, you can live a life you love without feeling hungry or deprived. Ciao for now!

About the Author

Dawn is a Wellness Strategist and Nutrition Evangelist. She has been living, loving, and teaching the PFC3 lifestyle for over a dozen years. Current loves—her family, pickleball, travel, and a fine meal!

Find her on Instagram @dmnutrition