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Episode Transcript

Hey there, it’s Ryann, your guide at the Food Freedom Lab. Today, let’s dive into a question that might be echoing in your mind: “Is the problem really my eating, or is my eating just a symptom of never addressing my actual problems in life?” This is a crucial topic, and I’m here to explore it with you in a real, raw, and authentic way. Grab your snacks, and let’s have an honest chat.

The Diet Culture Noise

In the world of nutrition, there’s a constant barrage of conflicting messages. Eat this, don’t eat that, and the confusion only grows. Recently, I got a question about intermittent fasting, and it struck me as a perfect opportunity to discuss the broader issue at hand.

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting is all about when you eat, not what you eat. It sounds tempting, especially for those struggling with food-related issues. The idea that changing when you eat might be the key to solving everything is alluring. But is it really?

Unpacking the Real Problem

If you’re wrestling with binge eating, emotional eating, or any food-related challenges, it’s crucial to understand that food is not the root problem—it’s a symptom. Diets, including intermittent fasting, often act as mere band-aids, not addressing the deeper issues.

The Allure of Diets

Diets promise quick fixes, a sense of control, and a temporary escape from life’s challenges. We’re conditioned to believe that if we blame our bodies for our problems, a diet will fix it all. The initial days of a new diet provide a fleeting sense of safety and control.

The Pitfalls of Intermittent Fasting

Let’s focus on intermittent fasting as an example. It might seem like a solution, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Planning your entire day around eating windows and constantly thinking about food—does that sound healthy?

Addressing the Real Issues

Here’s the crux: if you’re avoiding the emotional hardships you’ve experienced, the ruthless comments, or the deeper problems in your life, no diet will truly work. Diets like intermittent fasting might offer short-term benefits, but they often fail to mention the serious lifestyle changes they demand.

Healing Your Relationship with Food

The real conversation should be about your body, body image, and healing. Blaming your body for every problem is counterproductive. To find happiness and lasting change, you must recognize that weight is often chosen as a problem to avoid dealing with life’s complexities.

The Hard Work of Healing

Healing your relationship with food requires facing and processing real issues. It’s tough work, but it’s the only way to find lasting happiness. Instead of searching for the right way to eat, focus on how you want to feel. Build meals that support your well-being and face your problems head-on.

A Shift in Perspective

What if you let go of the diet today? What if you started working on healing your relationship with food and addressing the emotions you’ve been avoiding? Imagine building meals that bring joy, listening to your body, and taking time to enjoy your food. The journey starts by choosing to let go of the diet and embracing the path to true healing.

Conclusion

So, is the problem really your eating, or is your eating just a symptom of never addressing your actual problems in life? The answer lies in your willingness to explore, face the challenges, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Remember, we don’t know what might happen until you try. I’m sending you the biggest virtual hug because you’ve just completed another episode of the Food Freedom Lab. For more support, join me on Instagram at @itsryannicole or in my free Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/itsryannicole.

Links

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