We should never feel guilty about what we eat, because what we eat has no bearing on our value or morality.
However, there’s another aspect of my education that’s often overlooked in the fitness world. I see it as a major role of my profession: the emotional and cultural aspect of food. Yes, food is science, but it’s also a way to show our roots, celebrate, comfort, and savor the world around us. I aim and encourage others to be “normal” eaters, not just “healthy” eaters. So what does “normal” eating mean?
I believe that to truly be a “healthy” eater, you have to also be a “normal” eater. Although the science says that oatmeal is healthier than donuts for breakfast (because of the fiber, B vitamins, etc.), not being able to enjoy a donut with your co-workers occasionally, feeling guilty about eating those french fries, or punishing yourself through rigid restriction, is not healthy.
Now, these questions alone don’t qualify as an eating disorder, but these types of thoughts can lead to disordered eating, and unfortunately, this is too often applauded in our world. We share pictures of our food, often admitting a mistake (#cheatday, #guilty, #sinful, #foodporn), or we post photos displaying that we’re healthy eaters (#cleaneating, #guilt-free, #sugar-free, #raw). We’re promoting unhealthy relationships with food and ourselves. Chocolate cake doesn’t make us “dirty,” and eating kale doesn’t make us “clean.” We should never feel guilty about what we eat, because what we eat has no bearing on our value or morality.
After my schooling, I not only realized the science behind food, but I learned to celebrate the other aspects of food. I often eat large helpings of vegetables, because it makes my body feel good, and I know I need the nutrients, but I also celebrate with food (often pizza or ice cream). I love to learn about other cultures through food (thank goodness for Thai!), and comfort others and myself with food. There are few things I find more comforting when I’m sick than hot soup and homemade bread.
Now, I’m not saying that you should allow yourself to eat cake for all three meals, but I am saying that to be a truly healthy eater, you must allow yourself to enjoy and savor the non-scientific aspects of food without guilt, regret, or punishment. Listen to your body, make scientifically healthy choices most the time, but trust that your body will make up for it, even if you do happen to eat cake for all three meals once in a while…and if it’s poppyseed cake, give me a call and I’ll bring a fork!
Just another in a long list of non-truths to cater to people feelings. One more stab from the “there are no absolutes” mindset and an incredibly dangerous article as it appeals to peoples emotions and leads to poor choices and bad health.