Intuitive eating is hot: here's how to do it
If anyone is an emotional eater, it's me. At least, when I'm stressed. Because when I'm sad, I can't get a bite down. It's as if everything just locks up, and I'm often convinced that I'll never want to eat again. On a stressful day, I'm convinced that the snacks are irresistible. Neither is very healthy, of course, but I'm probably not the only one whose emotions have such a strong influence on her appetite. In fact, experts in the field of nutrition and emotions have come up with something to bring things more into balance: intuitive eating.
What is intuitive eating?
Intuitive eating is a way of eating that revolves around listening to the signals of your own body and following your natural hunger and satiety. Instead of following strict diet rules, intuitive eating encourages you to eat mindfully based on your physical needs and desires (and thus without guilt). It’s about letting go of external dietary guidelines and restoring trust in your own body to make healthy choices. It emphasizes respecting your body, enjoying food without judgment, and creating a positive relationship with food and yourself.
This is how you do it
To start with intuitive eating, it’s important to become aware of your eating habits and the signals from your body. Listen to your hunger cues and eat when your body indicates it needs nourishment. Learn to distinguish between physical and emotional hunger. Physical hunger builds gradually and is often associated with a growling stomach, fatigue, or irritability. Emotional hunger, on the other hand, is driven by emotional needs and can lead to cravings for comfort food. Try to eat mindfully and stop when you feel comfortably full, not when you are stuffed. Avoiding food restrictions and embracing a positive, non-judgmental attitude towards food are essential steps to begin intuitive eating.
All the benefits of intuitive eating
By listening to your body and aligning your eating habits with natural hunger and satiety, intuitive eating can lead to a healthier body image and even a better relationship with yourself. Research also shows that practicing intuitive eating is associated with a lower BMI and maintaining a healthy weight. Moreover, it can improve your mental health, potentially reducing feelings of depression and anxiety. By stepping away from diets and strict nutritional rules, intuitive eating can also positively influence your relationship with food, allowing you to enjoy meals more without guilt. The flexible nature of this approach makes it easier to maintain in the long term than the latest diet, which in turn leads to a more sustainable and healthier lifestyle. Sounds like a win-win-win, if you ask me.
Source: Healthline, Women’s Health
Image: @negin_mirsalehi
