In 2004 Taco Bell introduced a commercial that featured the slogan “Eating Outside The Bun”. This jokingly referred to the concept of eating from Taco Bell’s innovative menu as opposed to downing burgers from their burger fast food chain competitors.
The expression “Thinking Outside The Box” refers to approaching problems and situations creatively and unconventionally, moving beyond established patterns of thought and common assumptions to explore new perspectives and innovative solutions. This expression originated in the 1970’s and came from the solving of a nine dot puzzle introduced by management to workers.
Turning to this discussion in the weight control arena: Traditionally, breakfast consists for most people as cereals, eggs, bagels, yogurt etc. Lunches are often sandwiches or salads and dinners usually some sort of protein and a starch. Desserts may be part of the “usual” as well.
Over the years I have had many patients tell me “I don’t like eggs”, “I don’t eat chicken” and similar “Don’ts” that make weight control more challenging. I implore patients to try to come out of their set “boxes” and find innovative ways of eating more proteins and less carbs. If eggs are out of the potential breakfast items, how about a 4 ounce tuna packet? But wait, tuna is a “lunch food”. Well, please consider “eating outside of the box”. If your established norms are keeping you at a weight you are not happy with, eating patterns need to change. Chicken in the morning? A burger from last night for breakfast? These are not traditional “breakfast foods” but they certainly can help with weight control.
Sometimes we all need to “eat outside of the box” in order to keep the weight coming down. Do not be hesitant to do this.
And here is a retro commercial from Taco Bell circa 2005.
