It’s a Process: Intuitive Eating Resources
As this series of Intuitive Eating comes to a close, the work lies ahead of us to implement the tools that resonate with us individually. We can work to develop the habits we each need to improve our relationship with food, our bodies and our minds.
Why Diets Fail Us Long Term:
Diets, despite their widespread popularity, often fail in the long term because they promote temporary solutions to a complex issue.
We choose diets because we aren’t aware or don’t find the time to do the work around what’s at the core of the issues we are facing with our bodies and minds. We tend to think calories in, calories out is a simple process, but forget all of the individual physiology, habits, beliefs and mindset that goes into our make up.
Dieting tend to focus on restrictive eating patterns, rigid rules, and short-term goals that are unsustainable. While they might yield initial weight loss, they often lead to a cycle of deprivation and rebound weight gain, disrupting your metabolism for the long term, especially as we get into later stages in life.
Diets often ignore the individuality of each person's body and needs, creating a one-size-fits-all approach that disregards biological and psychological factors. Moreover, they can foster an unhealthy relationship with food, promoting guilt and shame around eating behaviors. Instead of addressing the root causes of weight or health concerns, diets prioritize quick fixes, ultimately setting people up for frustration, disappointment, and a continual cycle of weight fluctuation rather than fostering genuine, sustainable health and well-being.
The Importance of Intuitive Eating for Children and Teens:
Intuitive eating help children and teens develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies from a young age. It establishes healthy eating habits, promotes a positive body image, reduces risks of disordered eating and mental health issues, teaches self-regulation and enhances mindfulness and overall wellbeing.
Intuitive Eating Resources:
There are several excellent books and resources available that delve into the principles and practices of intuitive eating. Here are some highly recommended ones:
"Intuitive Eating: A Revolutionary Anti-Diet Approach" by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch:
This book outlines the 10 principles of intuitive eating, offering insights and strategies to help cultivate a healthy relationship with food.
"The Intuitive Eating Workbook: Ten Principles for Nourishing a Healthy Relationship with Food" by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch:
This workbook provides practical exercises, worksheets, and reflections to guide readers through the intuitive eating process. There is also a workbook for teen
"Health at Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight" by Linda Bacon:
This book challenges the traditional approach to weight and health, advocating for a compassionate, weight-inclusive approach to well-being.
"Body Respect: What Conventional Health Books Get Wrong, Leave Out, and Just Plain Fail to Understand about Weight" by Linda Bacon and Lucy Aphramor:
This book explores the relationship between health, weight, and self-compassion, promoting body respect and inclusivity.
"The F*ck It Diet: Eating Should Be Easy" by Caroline Dooner:
This book offers a humorous yet insightful approach to healing one's relationship with food by challenging diet culture and embracing intuitive eating.
Podcasts and Websites:
Listening to podcasts like "Food Psych" by Christy Harrison and “Maintenance Phase” or exploring websites like The Intuitive Eating Community (intuitiveeating.org) can provide ongoing guidance and support in your intuitive eating journey.
Remember, while these resources offer valuable insights into intuitive eating, everyone's journey is unique. It's essential to find resources that resonate with you personally and align with your goals and values regarding food and well-being.
Be patient and kind to yourself as you work on building your confidence with intuitive eating. Each small step you take is a success worth celebrating. Seek support from a nutritionist, therapist, or a supportive community if you find it challenging to navigate this journey on your own.
Embracing a more flexible and intuitive approach to eating can lead to a healthier and more balanced life in the long run.
We are founded on the belief that in everything we do, we are all craving happiness and joy, and feeling great in your body is the best way to achieve it.
NOTE: the information provided on the site is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice