artificial insemination syringe
I’ve always been petite, standing at just five feet tall—maybe a bit more with heels. My weight has varied over the years, from a low of 87 pounds to a high of 133. Despite my small frame, I’ve experienced the harsh realities of diet culture. I’ve been teased for my size, with comments suggesting I look sickly or jokes implying I have an eating disorder.
People often tell me to eat more, suggesting everything from a cheeseburger to, and I quote, “a fucking sandwich.” Some even joke that I’m so small I blend into my environment. However, the most harmful remarks I’ve received were those that praised my “willpower.” When people say things like, “I wish I could eat like you,” it may seem like a compliment, but it perpetuates a dangerous narrative. Starving oneself shouldn’t be seen as commendable; it’s a sign of deeper issues.
I know this all too well because I struggled with an eating disorder for years. My diet was limited to black coffee and baby food, consumed only at specific times. This wasn’t discipline; it was self-harm.
Other phrases, like “cheat day,” are equally problematic. They imply that eating certain foods is something to feel guilty about. Cheating is associated with wrongdoing, and by using this term in relation to food, we frame eating as something negative. Labeling foods as “sinful” or “guilt-free” creates a moral hierarchy around food that is unhealthy. Food is essential for our survival and wellbeing—it’s not inherently “good” or “bad.” Everyone deserves to feel beautiful and healthy at any size, and comments about weight or appearance can be hurtful.
As noted in an article from SELF, “In our culture, commentary on food and bodies is everywhere.” This pervasive discourse can harm anyone who has struggled with food or body image, which is nearly all of us. Fortunately, we can change the narrative around food and body image.
First, we need to redefine our understanding of food. The diet industry has distorted our perception, reducing meals to mere calories. Instead, we should view food as the essential fuel that supports our growth and health. It nurtures our bodies and keeps us alive, and we should honor that.
Next, let’s change how we talk about food and our bodies. Instead of saying you’re “cheating,” acknowledge that you’re simply eating and enjoying life. Rather than labeling foods as “good” or “bad,” refer to them by their names—like popcorn, apples, chicken, or chips. Shift the focus from physical appearance to personality traits. Compliment someone on their intelligence or positivity instead of their looks. Encourage self-affirmation like, “I’m proud of myself for listening to my body today.”
Ultimately, to cultivate a healthier relationship with our bodies, we need to reject the diet industry’s harmful rhetoric. Remember, pills and portion-controlled meals don’t equate to health. Happiness isn’t measured by a number on a scale. All bodies are beautiful, and being nourished is what truly matters.
If you’re interested in learning more about navigating these discussions, check out this related blog post here. For expert insights on fertility, visit Make a Mom’s fertility booster for men, and for comprehensive information on donor insemination, see American Pregnancy’s guide.
Summary
It’s crucial to reconsider how we discuss food and body image. Phrases like “being good” and “cheat day” perpetuate unhealthy attitudes toward eating and can lead to harmful behaviors. Instead, we should celebrate food as nourishment and shift our focus to positive attributes beyond physical appearance. By changing our language and perceptions, we can foster a healthier relationship with food and our bodies.
SEO Metadata
Keyphrase: Rethinking food language in diet culture
Tags: [“home insemination kit” “home insemination syringe” “self insemination”]