Harmful Myths from Diet Culture
In order to protect our mental health and keep our perspectives healthy, we need to evaluate the messages we receive from the world around us. We need a moment to ask ourselves - Is this message true? Is it helpful? Is it adaptive? In addition, sometimes we need to work backwards with this process, because there may be messages we’ve already absorbed without awareness.
Body Acceptance
What does it mean to accept our bodies? In our culture, the notion of body acceptance is often thought to be dependent on our physical appearance. We are continually sold the idea that the only route to body acceptance is to follow a certain diet plan, try this or that workout regimen, or take the newest supplement.
What is Avoidant Restrictive Intake Disorder?
Perfectionism and Mental Health
What exactly is perfectionism? According to the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, perfectionism involves an excessive fear of mistakes, high personal standards, doubting the quality of one's actions, and a preference for order. In a culture that applauds productivity, being a perfectionist has a positive connotation. It’s a trait that rises through the ranks, gets results, and pleases others.
Eating Disorders in Men
When you picture an eating disorder, what images come to mind? Did any of those images include men? While the common conception of eating disorders emphasizes women, research shows that about one in three people with an eating disorder are men, and eating disorders will affect 10 million men in the United States alone.
Yes, ALL Foods Really Do Fit
March is National Nutrition Month, so I thought I would take this opportunity to share our nutrition philosophy here at Focus Integrative Centers. I can sum it up in 3 words. ALL. FOODS. FIT. Yes, you heard that right! Isn’t that such good news?! We strongly believe that all types of food can fit into a balanced diet.
What I Didn’t Expect on My Eating Disorder Recovery Journey
…I noticed wanting to distance myself further and would get frustrated every time someone would mention the slightest thing regarding food, weight, or even health related. As if the eating disorder had not isolated me enough, my recovery was now driving an even bigger wedge right down the middle of my immediate family and loved ones.