Hi, my name is Victoria, and I have an obsession with food. In America today, as also the case with politics and other controversies, we seem to be stuck looking at two extremes of eating and are ill-equipped to exist somewhere in between. It’s no shock that some Americans, so kindly referred to as “health nuts,” harbor strong feelings about healthy eating, while the other extreme as obese. These two extremes create a paradox for the average American, like me, who just wants to be fit but still LOVE food.
The following are eight misconceptions regarding American food psychology that prove we can enjoy the foods we love, and we don’t have to feel ashamed about it.
1. Crying over spilt milk (but only if it’s the fat-free stuff).
Americans have been found to enjoy their food the least — probably because they're stressing about whether something is healthy or not — while we also have the highest obesity ratings compared to Japan, Belgium, and France. Ironically, the French have been found to enjoy their food the most, and have some of the lowest obesity rates. The lesson is to enjoy your food. Don't eat things that you don't love. Did you buy a cookie that's dry and tasteless? Toss it. It's not worth the calories. Love your food.
2. Mindless Eating
In college, I think we are all guilty of just grabbing that huge bag of pretzels while doing your chem homework and munching mindlessly while you complete problems. Absent-minded eating could be the most dangerous eating habit of all. In the process of mindless munching, it’s hard to keep track of just how much you’ve eaten. To prevent accidental overeating, it’s best to simply grab a small portion of pretzels (or chips or nuts or whatever), put them in a bowl, and leave the rest behind.
3. Cravings
Cravings. You just say the word, and it has an almost dark, ominous connotation that makes you want to whisper it. The psychological truth about cravings is that the real trouble comes from limiting yourself from what you crave. The more you limit yourself, the more you’re going to think about it, and the worse your cravings will be. Try a healthy alternative or eat a small portion to curb the craving rather than denying yourself and escalating to a binge later.
4. Healthy Portions
A lot of people think just because something is healthy, you can eat more of it. This is a dangerous misconception because it can lead to overeating, which could be just as harmful as downing a whole pack of Oreos. Things like avocados and nuts, which are crazy-healthy for you are also very high in calories. Keep an eye on your portions whether the food is healthy or a less-than-healthy treat.
5. Labeling
Labeling affects how much we enjoy something (for example if it’s labeled low-fat vs. full fat). We automatically think just because it’s labeled low-fat, it won’t taste as good and will be less enjoyable. Fat content especially is an annoying case, because high fat isn’t highly dangerous. The key is to eat as natural foods whenever possible. Something low in fat may be higher in calories or it may be loaded with other preservatives and unhealthy chemicals to replace the fat content and improve taste.
6. Mood Swings
It’s kind of well known that when you’re in a bad mood, you’re more likely to reach for the not-so-great-for-you snacks (thanks Ben &Jerry), but the good news is that eating fruits and vegetables makes for better moods, whereas eating the bad foods can create prolonged negative vibes.
7. Breaking Conformity
I am so guilty of going to a restaurant with friends or family and getting frustrated when everyone orders the same thing, especially when it was what I was planning on ordering (I like to try everyone’s different dishes, sorry 'bout it). We all want to be different and to sample the best of the menu by ordering something different, but by not ordering what was your first choice, you’re not enjoying it as much as would have your first. Be sure to follow your heart when it comes to dining out.
8. IT'S HOW YOU EAT, NOT WHAT YOU EAT.
This is the biggest take-away I hope to share. I wish I could outline it with a blinking neon sign. What you eat is extremely important, but it doesn’t have to be the key factor in maintaining a healthy weight. How you eat is what makes or breaks you. Use smaller portion sizes, set down utensils in between bites so you eat more slowly and drinking water with every meal all prevent overeating and don’t starve you. Eating should never be something shameful. Enjoy the food you’re eating, and eat foods that are as natural as possible. It’s as simple as that.
