Intuitive Eating: Having Peace with Food

#allthefood

There are no bad foods. Unless the food is poisoned. Or you’re allergic. But other than that, foods are not “good” or “bad”. This is a very countercultural thought. Diet culture wants to seize control of our thoughts and actions concerning food, and tells us that certain foods are evil. I can assure you, carbs are not evil; fat is not bad. Yes, it is important to consume these and all foods in moderation. However, this does not mean that foods or food groups need to be cut. Any food can and should be incorporated into a balanced diet.

“No particular food is out-of-bounds in the context of generally sound nutrition. Know that your body’s innate intelligence can help you make choices that support your well-being” (Bacon 75).

You may be thinking: “if my diet is not based off of labeling foods as good or bad, how am I supposed to choose my foods?” The answers are variety and hunger cues. Eating a variety of foods ensures that one is receiving a proper amount of macro and micronutrients. Eating based off of hunger cues allows for individualized energy consumption.

It is possible to eat all foods, incorporate whole foods, and base this on hunger signals. However, this can be an intimidating end goal when looked at all at once. Instead, look at it as a journey to intuitive eating, a pattern of eating that satisfies one’s nutritional needs. Take small steps to achieve your goals; break them down into small pieces in order to build up to larger goals.

I encourage y’all to challenge yourselves this week, this month, to first work on recognizing hunger and satiety cues. Work on listening to your body, then try to eat portion sizes and foods based on these cues.

Bacon, L. (2010). Health at every size: The surprising truth about your weight. BenBella Books.