“If moderation means doing something harmful regularly, is it moderation or slow destruction?” – Azadeh Gharehgozlou
I always thought the “everything in moderation” line irrational, especially when it comes to health.
I’ve had people tell me “everything in moderation,” and in the same breath, talk about what chronic diseases they have had, or what prescription drugs they are on. Seriously?
Read more as Azadeh explains the fallacy of moderation and its impact on our health:
Chris Do ’s cousin once asked him:
“Everything in moderation, right?”
Chris replied:
“Sure… if you want to live a moderate life.”
Then he added:
“I want to live an exceptional life. I got this one shot—I’m going all in.”
That hit me.
For years, we’ve been told moderation is the key to health.
Yet, we’re sicker than ever.
So, what does moderation even mean?
A glass of wine every night?
A sugary snack every afternoon?
Processed foods just a few times a week?
If moderation means doing something harmful regularly, is it moderation or slow destruction?
This is how we got here:
We normalized small daily doses of things that make us sick, thinking it was “balanced.” But balance doesn’t mean habitual indulgence.
It means understanding trade-offs.
Here’s what real moderation (or the 80/20 rule) should look like:
✅ Eat whole, nutrient-dense foods most of the time.
✅ Enjoy indulgences occasionally—but intentionally, not habitually.
✅ Prioritize movement, sleep, and stress management over quick fixes.
I eat what I love. I indulge when I choose to.
But I don’t fool myself into thinking daily sugar, alcohol, or junk food is “moderation.”
And since today is Valentine’s Day…
Maybe moderation isn’t just misleading when it comes to health.
Maybe love is the same way.
Go all in—or don’t at all.
Happy Valentine’s Day. ❤️
Azadeh Gharehgozlou is an executive health coach. © Azadeh Gharehgozlou
Darrick Dean 