It seems like every five minutes, someone somewhere mentions the word "diet." It is mentioned either through word of mouth, between the pages of some magazine, or even during commercial breaks on TV. Not only that, but around 45 million people end up going on a diet every year, making it highly marketable and becoming a source for diet brands to use to their own advantage. The major thing that comes along with the diet culture are the unfortunate effects that follow it.
One of the unfortunate effects of giving into diet culture is the possibility of eating disorders. According to ANAD, "At least 30 million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the U.S." Men (boys), women (girls), and transgender individuals suffer from eating disorders, and several thousands of those were caused by crash-and-fast dieting. Some are able to recover from crash diets and eating disorders, however, there are many who are unable to recover.
Back in 2009, a bride-to-be died, and although it is uncertain as to what ultimately contributed to her death, the doctor stated that the controversial diet was one of the contributing factors. There have been several deaths linked to crash and fast diets, however, it is rarely talked about. Why? Because diet culture feeds off of fear, insecurity, and body dysmorphia that continues to rampage throughout the entire world.
Diet culture also has a lot of lies that seem to be believed by millions of people, making it even worse. These are the top three lies (and mindsets) that need to go ASAP.
1. Thin = healthy
Many people are naturally skinny, this is due to their own metabolism and genetic makeup. However, just because they are skinny naturally doesn't mean that they are necessarily healthy — being able to eat copious amounts of junk food and not show it doesn't mean you're at your best.
2. There is "good" food and there is "bad" food
Pasta, pizza, ice cream are considered "bad" food. Whereas, eggs and kale are considered "good" food. However, there is a misconception about this — at one point eggs were considered to be extremely bad for you and your cholesterol. However, now they are considered a great source of protein and an excellent option for breakfast. Times change, and so do our perceptions of food.
3. Losing weight is always good
The only time losing weight is a good thing is when someone has an illness that is threatening their life such as diabetes, complications with the heart, or anything of that nature. However, if you are already at what you and your primary care physician believe is a healthy weight, then you no longer need to lose weight.
So, what can we do to create a healthier lifestyle, develop a healthy relationship with food, and not feel guilty about our bodies?
Listen, listen, listen — that's the key. Instead of stepping onto the scale to check our weight (which isn't even accurate), we should notice how we fit into our clothes. Instead of looking to fast and crash diets and downing copious amounts of detox drinks, protein drinks, or anything of that nature, we should listen to our bodies about when we have had too much fried or sweet foods, and eat more vegetables and fruits. Think of the 80/20 lifestyle, where you enjoy all aspects of life, by eating 80 percent clean and 20 percent more indulgent.
And don't forget to workout! There is nothing with moving around and get your heart pumping, in fact, it is recommended to exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Go for a jog or take your dogs out for a long walk, get into yoga, or turn on YouTube and find workout videos to participate in the comfort of your own home.
