A breakdown of gentle nutritionthe final principle of intuitive eatingaccording to anti-diet registered dietitians.
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And for some folks starting their intuitive eating journey, meals may look like that (which is okay!
an anti-diet dietitian based in Raleigh, North Carolina
), especially if theyve been depriving themselves of those foods.
Its a way to respect and trust your body.
Intuitive eating helps you become less obsessed with food so you could live a more full life.
When you break it down, intuitive eating has 10 core principles.
Wondering what that last one means?
Two anti-diet dietitians are here to fill you in with more details and tips on how to implement it.
What does gentle nutrition mean?
In short, its all about flexibility.
Gentle nutrition is the last principle of intuitive eating for a reason, says Byrne.
an anti-diet dietitian based in Raleigh, North Carolina
Hence why its important to note that gentle nutrition is not the primary focus of intuitive eating.
The other nine principles help us focus on moving away from diet culture.
Its only then can we use the science of nutrition in a nurturing, caring way for ourselves.
In short, think nutrition without rigidity, shame, or fear.
Gentle nutrition is about adding foods, not restricting them.
And thats perfectly okay.
Byrne encourages working with a professional, especially if you worry gentle nutrition could become strict for you.
Lutz describes what that might look like.
The problem with taking a super strict approach to nutrition is that it almost always backfires, Byrne says.
Its also no fun!
you could only force yourself to do something that doesnt come naturally for so long.
The bottom line is, if weretoo strict about nutrition, it can become very unhealthy, Lutz says.
If this starts to happen, remind yourself that having food rules isnt healthy, Byrne adds.
It also may be best to start slow.
And after you try it, journal or think about how you feel.
Was it triggering at all?
What would make it not triggering next time?
What pace feels safest for you?
Remember, theres no judgment here.
Gentle nutrition is not about perfection, at any point.
There are many, manycomplex determinants of health, Lutz says.
Simplifying nutrition in a rigid way doesnt make scientific sense.
There is not one strict way to eat.
Its a way to ensure you feel your best.
She encourages using your understanding to inform, not rule, your food choices.
(A win-win, in our book.)
Yep: No food rules, sacrificing ice cream nights with friends, or exhaustion.
Gentle nutrition can also be a helpful tool if you have a medical condition.
But again, if you find it triggering or unhelpful, listen to that.
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