why doesn’t intuitive eating work for me?
Intuitive eating, the latest health buzzword in nutrition, often leaves my clients frustrated. They express their disappointment, saying, "I've consulted with a nutritionist who just told me to listen to my body and eat intuitively. How does that help with my weight loss goals?" Does this resonate with you?
Are you weary of the constant advice to eat intuitively, wondering what it truly means? Unfortunately, well-meaning phrases like intuitive eating, lifestyle change, mindful eating, and superfood, while opposing damaging diet dialogues, have become overused and lack clear definitions.
I'm here to cut through the noise and explain the essence of intuitive eating.
WHAT IS INTUITIVE EATING?
In simple terms, intuitive eating is about trusting and responding to what your body needs. It serves as an alternative to traditional diets, empowering you to become the expert on yourself. After all, who knows you better than you?
While intuitive eating might seem straightforward, the modern world's distractions—Instagram, magazines, diet books, calorie apps, and societal influences—often drown out your body's natural signals.
The goal is to shift from the constant chatter of your mind to a dietary grounding technique that connects you with your body's upfront and honest signals. Most people struggle with this initial step, leading to a misinterpretation of intuitive eating.
WHY DOES INTUITIVE EATING FAIL?
Intuitive eating fails when it transforms into a set of rules and restrictions, mirroring traditional diets. It falters when you try to emulate or think like someone else, make food choices out of fear, use it as a means to eat less, or disregard your body's natural signals.
The challenge lies in deciphering the source of messages—is it your mind, body, or environment guiding you? The aim is to listen to your body for guidance in making food decisions, rather than relying solely on your mind inundated with external influences.
Intuitive Eating is not a test; there's no pass or fail. There are no rigid rules of right and wrong as your body varies every day. The conditioning that suggests a "right" way to eat confuses your natural instincts.
HOW CAN I MAKE INTUITIVE EATING WORK FOR ME?
The first step may involve ditching the label "intuitive eating." Instead, try phrases like normal eating, working with my body, or eating to feel good. To enhance your connection with your body, start each day with these questions:
How am I feeling physically today?
How am I feeling mentally today?
What does my body need today to feel good?
What does my mind need today to feel good?
Over time, this process becomes more natural, and you'll intuitively know what your body needs throughout the day.
Embracing intuitive eating is associated with lower rates of disordered eating, offering the freedom to eat what you truly desire. Allow yourself the pleasure of a big bowl of pasta when your body craves it. Through this surrender, you build trust with yourself and your body, fostering a more peaceful relationship with food.