I find it really tough to talk about diets as a mental health tool because the topic stirs up
a lot of uncomfortable emotions. But I thought you might learn from my story, so here it is.
Despite my meals looking like a colorful rainbow to others, my overall health declined over the years. Getting sick despite trying to do everything "by the book" perfectly was frustrating, and it turned into an obsession that actually made things mentally and physically worse. Just few years ago I'd spend hours at the grocery store, picky reading labels and categorizing foods as "good" or "bad." Imagine the guilt that came with accidentally eating something from the "bad" category.
I could point fingers at those triggering this behavior, including the media, but I chose not to become a victim and started to take responsibility and learn acceptance. After all, as Alan Watts wisely stated: fighting pain is pain. Now, my friends and family are confused by what I eat. It seems like my choices depend on my mood every time we meet. While most of them probably mean well (it's easier for meal planning), I'm tired of explaining my eating habits. People’s comments about the food on my plate or how they think I should look or eat is exhausting. It's a personal matter. Sometimes the same food can be a blessing or a curse for my health. It's like a game of chance even for me. I’m exploring and reintroducing “bad” food. I don’t owe anyone an explanation how I eat. Neither do you.
I encourage you to listen to your body. Yes, it can be tricky sometimes, but feeling guilty about what you eat is one of the biggest stressors that can make you feel unwell. Diets are often rigid and assume that we all have the same cookie-cutter body, but we're all unique. Eat regularly and mindfully, explore different foods, and pay attention to how they make you feel. Or as my favorite quote from Michael Pollan goes:
"Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants."
That's a good starting point for feeling better.
Do you want to learn more about diets?
📚 "In Defense of Food" by Michael Pollan. Keep in mind he is an author and not a nutritionist, but I've to admit his book helped me to see food in a less extreme way.
✏️ Get my free worksheet about diet