Eating things…  you ae aware of

You’ve probably heard these…..

“You are what you eat” or “A calorie is a calorie”

The question is, are these really true ?  What does this say to our inner voice and how does that effect our behavior and self worth?

Eating does nto define you

I challenge to you consider changing some of the ways you talk about, look at and think about eating food.   The contents of your plate does not define you.  And yes, calories really differ from one another in the way they effect your body from eating. 

On a chilly day do you find yourself curled up on the couch, snuggled under a warm blanket, sipping a cup of hot cocoa adn eating crackers?  

Does this eating cause you have thoughts of guilt?  

Is there any negative self-talk happening in your head?  In reality, this satisfies a need in our soul and is appropriate based on the season.  There is no harm done and nothing to feel anxious or guilty about eating.

Looking at food as neither “good” or “bad” is a big step toward changing the meaning food has in our life.  

Allowing yourself the freedom to be on a “all food is okay” diet can free your mind of negative thoughts.  It allows you to enjoy eating food more and likely lead to a more balanced food life that satisfies you more deeply.

Think of Eating like this 

There might be reasons why you don’t eat certain foods, but are they true and valid?  So many opinions exist about what we eat!  Extreme rules seem to be accepted as the key to a healthy diet.  But, perfectionism does not go well when it comes to pretty much anything, especially food.  Yes, some foods are certainly more nutritious than others.  But food has a broader role in our lives beyond nutrition.  Enjoying a holiday meal with family and friends goes way beyond nutrition.  Sitting on the couch on a fall evening, eating a warm slice of pumpkin bread with your bestie is just good for your soul.

Just like we can choose what we eat…

Our mindset determines our behavior and happiness.  Just like we can choose what we eat, we can choose what we think about what we eat.  Food is to provide energy, nutrition, pleasure….and our thoughts will fuel choices about food.  Healthy food thoughts often lead to a better connection between your brain and your gut and lead to eating nutritious foods more often and fun foods in smaller portions.  

Food can be energizing and soul-soothing.  It can be a source of connection to those you love.  Become aware of your judgmental thoughts when they pop up.  Think about what they are telling you.  Journal if that helps.  Focus on how satiating a meal is and the joy you feel instead of the calorie count.  You may find that you are better able to effect portion sizes, attend to hunger cues and overall improve your relationship with food.