If I've learned anything growing up as a woman, it's that society isn't happy with any decision you make. Don't eat that, don't wear this, don't sleep so long, don't read so much, sit up straight, and on and on. And I used to be one of those people who tried to dictate what people do (and I'm still sort of guilty of it). But I'm coming around to the idea that people have different eating habits, and I'm no dietitian, so who am I to judge what people do and don't eat? Anyway, here's a list of what people on diets want their anti-diet friends to know.
1. Yes, it's because I'm unhappy with certain aspects of my body.
Or, in my case, I can just say it's because I'm fat. And fat isn't a bad word! But I am 5'6" and 210 pounds and I feel very fat and very unhealthy in my body. I want to change that.
2. No, I don't hate myself.
I'm actually doing this out of love for myself. I just want to be happier in my own skin. That means being (significantly) thinner, and I have been before, so I know I can be.
3. No, I don't think fat people are ugly.
Keep rocking those curves -- you're still gorgeous. People of all shapes and sizes are beautiful, and I'm sure there are plenty of people out there with body types like mine that are perfectly happy, and honestly, more power to them. I'm not one of them, though, so please respect that.
4. Sorry, but I can't go out to eat.
At least, not while you keep picking burger places and pie bars. I don't want to go out to eat when all I can eat is...salad.
5. I need nutrition facts before I can eat it.
I know you spent two hours on that lasagna, and it looks delicious. But unless you kept the packages for all the ingredients before you threw them away, I can't eat it.
6. This phone calculator is my life.
I'm sorry if it's annoying, but I do need to document everything I eat before or after I eat it, so please be patient with me while I do.
7. Please understand I'm not trying to be rude.
I want to go out to eat with you, I want to eat the food you prepare because I know that food is love, but if it's above my calorie threshold, I can't. I'm not trying to insult your cooking. I'm trying to make healthy decisions for myself.
8. I'm not trying to get you to diet with me.
I know you're against diets. I know you've had a bad experience. I know they didn't work for you or someone you know. I know the diet industry is a scam, etc., etc. But this is a personal choice, and I'm not trying to get you to do it with me, or to even like it. Just respect it.
9. Yes, I'm being healthy about it.
I know how many calories my body burns a day and how much protein and fat to give myself. I take my vitamins every day, and I eat when I'm hungry. I'm not wasting away on chicken broth.
10. Please don't insist I do a "cheat day" every time I'm with you.
Believe me, I give myself enough cheat days on my own, I don't need your help in doing them.
11. Please don't tell me I need to eat more.
Yes, I'm full. And the only reason I probably don't eat while I'm with you is because I can't eat any of the food you suggest.
12. While I really do appreciate all of your concern, it's actually none of your business.
The only reason I'm telling you is because we live in a culture where telling someone "no" to food and/or alcohol is considered rude. Believe me -- if I didn't have to tell you, I wouldn't.
13. I still know how to have fun.
I know we live in a society where it's fun to go out and get food and drinks with your friends at the bowling alley. But trust me -- I'll have much more fun there just bowling. And think of it this way: it means more pizza and beer for you.
I appreciate your concern, but I don't necessarily appreciate your input. This is my life, and I know how I want to live it.