American culture has been obsessed with diets and weight loss for decades. While most people have minor quirks in their relationship with food, the following could be signs of a bigger issue:
Constant dieting: Fad diets come and go, and it’s easy to jump on the bandwagon. However, diets don’t work because any type of restrictive eating makes forbidden foods more appealing. Find moderation.
Counting calories: Many apps will help you track everything you consume. Counting calories can quickly become obsessive, and it’s definitely a problem if you limit your intake when you reach your calorie limit.
Feeling guilty after eating: Eating is something we all do to live. Part of the human experience is enjoying different tastes. Meeting your basic needs isn’t something that should cause guilt, so experiencing guilt might indicate a larger issue. If you’re feeling like your relationship with food might be unhealthy, seek out a mental health professional to discuss.
Bethany Kriegel, LMHC, earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling from Boston College. She has experience working with adults in residential treatment settings, helping those struggling with eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder, among other issues.
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