We all love an acronym.

They help us remember complex topics as well as more simple entertaining areas of life.

Here’s a good one, which if everyone did, would likely result in huge relief to the NHS and other health services across the world…

SHARP acronym:

S: Slash the sugar.

It’s not just your body – sugar has detrimental effects on your brain as well.

The average person in the west consumes nearly 163 grams of refined sugars, about eight times more than the suggested intake (also too high).

As much as you can, eliminate sugar from your diet, especially processed sugar.

Remember, the best foods don’t come with nutritional labels or health claims – they are the whole, real foods you find around the perimeter of a grocery store.

H: Hydrate smartly.

We often mistake hunger for thirst.

Turn the phrase “drink instead of eat” into a personal mantra.

Water is, by far, the best option.

You can also have tea or coffee. Alcohol doesn’t count as a source of hydration!

A: Add more omega-3 fatty acids from dietary sources.

Fatty fish – especially salmon, mackerel, sardines and anchovies – it’s a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Beef, lamb, venison and buffalo meat are as well.

Plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids include flaxseed, nuts, seeds, and plant-derived oils (although be careful about overdosing on omega 6).

R: Reduce portions.

The Japanese have a saying: hara hachi bu.

It means “Stop eating when you’re 80% full.”

There’s a lot of wisdom in this.

We westerners, eat too much, far more than we actually require.

Consequently, we make our bodies work much more than they really need to.

The easiest way to gain control of your portions and calories is to prepare meals yourself at home, measure accurately, and don’t go back for seconds.

P: Plan ahead.

In other words, don’t get caught starving and resorting to junk food.

If you’re not prepared when hunger strikes, you’ll eat just about everything, but especially the worst kind of food – quick, tasty and satisfying.

So, plan your meals in advance and shop accordingly. Don’t let your diet control you – be the one in control.

Have fun with it!

Your coach,

Rupert Hambly