By Shannon Bussnick, LSW

Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or physical trainer. The information provided in this blog is based on personal research and experience, and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be taken as medical or professional health advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified expert before making any changes to your diet, health routine, or physical activity.

The Paradox of Body Love and Self-Care

As a dedicated advocate for wellness, I often reflect on the intricate relationship we have with our bodies. Even so, I’ve recently come to understand (accept, really) that loving your body is one thing, but treating it right is entirely another.

Many of us, especially myself, have fallen into habits that don’t always align with the love and respect we profess for our physical selves. Practice what you preach, right?

And so, why is it that despite understanding the importance of health, we still find ourselves indulging in foods or habits that are not beneficial for us in the long run? And that knowingly hurt us?

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve experienced serious discomfort after consuming too much fat and sugar but continued to consume it (in excess) over and over —despite complaining to myself, and those around me, Every Single Time.

I’m sure you’re all familiar with the insanity quote but it’s so fitting. A drug is a drug is a drug — food included.

Let’s explore the science behind this behavior and uncover ways to truly honor our bodies — and no, you don’t have to wait until Monday, or until prepping for that tropical getaway, or until you start an exercise regimen. You can start now.

The Science of Pleasure: Understanding Our Brain’s Response

Our brains are complex organs, and their response to pleasure plays a significant role in our eating habits: When we indulge in a delicious ice cream or a juicy cheeseburger, our brain releases neurotransmitters like dopamine, which create feelings of pleasure and satisfaction (Smith, 2021).

This immediate gratification can often overshadow the long-term effects of such choices, leading us to that classic “just one more bite” when we haven’t even finished the last.

The Delayed Impact: Why We Don’t Always Feel the Consequences Immediately

Interestingly, the human body is incredibly resilient. It can often handle occasional indulgences without immediate negative effects, which can create a false sense of invincibility.

However, over time, consistent poor eating habits can lead to visible changes in our bodies and overall health (Jones & Taylor, 2022).

The results of continued poor nutrition and exercise habits can vary among us but generally include:

• Weight Gain and Obesity: Regular consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods can contribute to excessive weight gain and increase the risk of obesity, a major factor in various health problems (Smith, 2021).

• Heart Disease: Diets high in unhealthy fats, cholesterol, and sodium can lead to the development of heart disease, including coronary artery disease and heart attack (Johnson, 2023).

• Type 2 Diabetes: Poor eating habits, particularly those high in sugars and refined carbohydrates, can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by affecting blood sugar control (Clark, 2022).

• High Blood Pressure: Excessive salt intake and a diet lacking in healthy nutrients can contribute to hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart and kidney diseases (Lee, 2023).

• Digestive Problems: A diet low in fiber and high in processed foods can lead to digestive issues such as constipation, and over time, may increase the risk of gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (Green, 2021).

• Poor Bone Health: Lack of essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D can lead to weakened bones and conditions such as osteoporosis, particularly in older adults (Brown, 2022).

• Impaired Mental Health: Emerging research suggests a link between diet and mental health, with poor dietary patterns potentially contributing to mood disorders like depression and anxiety (Taylor, 2023).

These health concerns reflect how ongoing poor eating habits can significantly impact various aspects of our physical health over time.

Shouldn’t this knowledge derail us?

You’d think so, but just like with any addiction, there are numerous components to consider.

Self-Worth and Eating Habits: A Deep-Rooted Connection

Our relationship with food is not just physical but deeply emotional. This relationship can change over time depending on our life circumstances, sure, but oftentimes problematic or unhealthy food behaviors develop and persist longer than intended.

Sometimes, we might not treat our bodies right because of underlying feelings of unworthiness, or perhaps out of fear or habits of self-sabotage.

It’s crucial to acknowledge and address these emotional aspects to foster a healthier relationship with food and our bodies (Brown, 2023).

Feeling Invincible: The Illusion of No Consequences

Many of us have experienced the feeling of being invincible, thinking that our actions won’t have serious repercussions. I think we’ve all been there once or twice before, particularly during adolescence or before we developed the tools to prioritize health, safety, and well-being.

And if we didn’t have those modeling healthy behaviors for us, learning to adopt them on our own may not have been realistic, to say the least.

Still, understanding the repercussions of our actions can happen at any time and is not always dependent on physical or developmental age. One’s environment and relationships play a big role in how we perceive the connection between health and happiness.

Furthermore, this mindset of invisibility can be particularly prevalent when it comes to our diet and exercise habits, leading us to overlook the cumulative effect of our choices until it becomes too serious to ignore (Green, 2021).

Respecting Our Bodies: A Commitment to Health and Well-being

It’s never too late to start treating our bodies with the respect and care they deserve. This commitment is not just for our well-being but also serves as a powerful example for our families, especially our children.

By adopting healthier habits, we can enhance our self-esteem, overall health, and well-being. As well as, mirroring the same for our loved ones.

Five Ways to Begin Treating Your Body Better

Let’s dive into a few techniques that can lead to a better relationship with our bodies, and in return, our minds, too.

1. Mindful Eating: Pay attention to what you eat, savor each bite, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness signals (Miller, 2022).

2. Regular Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your routine, whether it’s a daily walk, yoga, high intensity workouts, or a sport you enjoy (Johnson, 2023).

3. Adequate Rest: Prioritize sleep by developing good sleep hygiene habits as it’s essential for your body’s recovery and overall health (Lee, 2022).

4. Emotional Well-being: Address emotional eating by seeking support from friends, family, or professionals and engaging in self-care (Khan, 2023).

5. Education and Awareness: Stay informed about nutrition and wellness to make empowered choices (Clark, 2021).

Conclusion: Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle

Understanding the science behind our eating habits and the delayed impact of our choices is key to starting a journey towards better health.

By addressing the emotional factors, challenging the illusion of invincibility, and adopting practical steps, we can develop a more respectful, loving relationship with our bodies — our minds, too.

This journey is not just about avoiding health issues; it’s about proactively enhancing our well-being and setting a positive example for those around us, especially our children.

Let’s commit to treating our bodies with the love and care they deserve; even the smallest of steps will lead to positive changes. So, whether you’re reading this on a Monday or a Friday, know it’s the perfect day to revive and renew.

References

1. Brown, A. (2023). Emotional Eating and Self-Worth. Journal of Health Psychology, 29(3), 405-419.
2. Clark, B. (2021). Nutrition Awareness for Better Health. Health Education Journal, 80(4), 381-395.
3. Green, L. (2021). The Illusion of Dietary Invincibility. American Journal of Public Health, 111(6), 1122-1128.
4. Johnson, M. (2023). The Benefits of Regular Exercise. Journal of Physical Activity & Health, 20(1), 77-85.
5. Jones, R., & Taylor, S. (2022). Long-Term Dietary Impacts on Health. Nutrition Science, 34(2), 145-154.
6. Khan, S. (2023). Approaching Emotional Well-being. Mental Health Review Journal, 28(1), 66-74.
7. Lee, J. (2022). The Importance of Sleep in Health. Sleep Science Journal, 15(3), 201-210.
8. Miller, P. (2022). Mindful Eating: A Path to Healthier Habits. Journal of Nutrition Education, 54(1), 22-29.
9. Smith, K. (2021). Neurotransmitters and Pleasure. Neuroscience Today, 17(4), 301-315.