Please raise your hand if you’ve ever tried to diet or lose weight. Chances are, most of us would have our hands raised if we were all together in a room. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), nearly half of U.S. adults reported attempting to lose weight in the past 12 months when surveyed from 2013 to 2016. Women were more likely to have tried to lose weight, with about 56 percent of women and 42 percent of men making weight loss attempts. This goes to show that dieting and intentional weight loss efforts are extremely common.
While the term “diet” may have negative connotations, weight loss diets are still prevalent, just under different names. Any program that imposes food restrictions or strict food rules can be considered a diet. Many people start diets with the goal of improving their mental or physical health, but they may not realize the potential harm that dieting can cause.
One of the most concerning aspects of dieting is the increased risk of developing an eating disorder. Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by severe disordered eating behaviors and emotional distress. There is often an overemphasis on weight and body shape in eating disorders. The four main types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).
Dieting can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, which may pave the way for an eating disorder. Restrictive eating habits, food rules, and labeling foods as “good” or “bad” can all contribute to disordered eating behaviors. Additionally, dieting is often linked to body dissatisfaction, encouraging the idea that one type of body is superior to another.
To break free from the cycle of dieting and improve your relationship with food, it’s important to reflect on your values and desires, embrace an “all foods fit” mentality, and consider working with a non-diet, weight-inclusive dietitian and therapist.
In conclusion, while dieting is common, it can have detrimental effects on your relationship with food and your body. If you find yourself stuck in a cycle of dieting, it may be beneficial to seek support in breaking up with diets for good and establishing a healthier relationship with food. Remember, working with professionals can help you on your journey towards a positive relationship with food.
