Relationships with food
How is your relationship with food? When it comes to Holidays or events do you stress out about restriction, or dieting?
My goal here is not to shame anyone but to increase awareness about some habits that give you red flags. Because knowledge is power, right? And this is a fundamental paradigm change.
An unhealthy food relationship looks like this: fixation, rigidity, guilt and shame.
A healthy food relationship looks like this: adaptability, variety, appreciation and love.
There’s nothing wrong with indulging once in a while. In fact, I encourage you to enjoy your holiday season or any special occasions and eat all you want (Lord knows I will too).
I also want you to be aware of the trap that tells you that you are somehow bad or shameful for enjoying that food. If you’re going to eat a treat, enjoy it and move in. Resume life as normal and stop being so hard on yourself.
Do this because you love your body. Do it because you’re committed to being present in the experience of celebrating with your loved ones and because there really is no shame in that extra slice of any food you have. Take note of these examples below and don’t be so hard on yourself.
Healthy Relationship with Food:
Knowing all foods have pros and cons
A healthy eating lifestyle
Enjoying treats occasionally
Adaptable eating habits
Appreciation for your body and commitment to making it strong and healthy
Unhealthy Relationship with Food:
Black and white ideas about food quality
Always being “on a diet”
Guilt/shame after eating
Rigid eating habits
Constantly thinking about food, weight, or body ideals
If you are ready to get to the root cause of your health concerns, reach out to the EmpowerMed team of naturopathic doctors today. We take a collaborative approach to natural medicine, partnering with patients to help them achieve their unique health and wellness goals.
Contact us today at 760-456-7501 or use our booking link to schedule.
EmpowerMed Clinic is located just off the I-15 and Carroll Canyon within the Fitness Quest 10 Wellness Center of Scripps Ranch, San Diego County, CA. We serve the communities of North County San Diego, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch, Mira Mesa, Ramona, Scripps Ranch, Santee, and more.
Written by Dr. Carleigh Golightly