4 Smart Ways to Improve Your Relationship with Food ⋆ Ok, Dani

1. Learn more about it

The best way to improve your relationship with food is to learn as much as you can about it. Learn where it comes from, learn new foods, how to prepare different meals, etc. The more you learn about the food you eat, the closer you come to it. This way you view food as a friend, and less like some outside force you need to control.

2. Choose the right diet

What I should really say here is “choose the most efficient yet comfortable way of eating” but that’s just too long. If you choose to go from eating the SAD (standard American diet) straight to strictly raw vegan….that may not be the right diet for you right now. Baby steps, yall. Choose a way of eating that makes sense for you right now (not the ideal “perfect” you of the future) and suits your goals.

3. Forgive yourself

There is no use in beating yourself up over eating off plan. Grant yourself some grace and forgiveness for slip ups. If you totally binged on items you “shouldn’t” have eaten, calling yourself names and ruminating about it won’t do anything about it. Stay positive. Food is your friend.

4. Avoid mindless eating

Mindless snacking can lead to a binge at best or a downward shame spiral at worst. Avoid it by staying hydrated, being mindful of your mood, and freshening/tricking your mouth. If brushing your teeth isn’t feasible, pop an Orbit in your mouth and keep it moving. Sugarfree gum like Orbit can be a lifesaver when cravings hit. You’ll avoid mindless munching, save on calories (it’s only 5-10!), and the guilt. Bonus is the oral health benefit!

BONUS:

5. Exercise!

Yes, exercise contributes to a healthy relationship with food. The more you work out and realize the amazing machine your body is, the more you’re able to view food as fuel. When you view food as fuel (that is also delicious) you have an easier time making healthy food choices, and you’ll eat the right amounts. So get to working out. No gym needed, you ca work out at home with just a few pieces of equipment or just your own body weight!