You can’t have a healthy relationship with unhealthy food (or a toxic person)
You can’t have a healthy relationship with unhealthy food.
Just like you can’t have a healthy relationship with an unhealthy, toxic person.
We don’t say:
“It’s okay, just spend a little time with this abusive person.”
“It’s fine if they put you down sometimes — everything in moderation.”
Because even a little exposure affects your life.
It ripples into your mood, your nervous system, your self-worth, and your other relationships.
Yet when it comes to food, well-meaning voices in the “weight loss” industry often say:
“Everything in moderation.”
“Don’t divide food into good and bad.”
“Don’t restrict yourself.”
They walk around you on eggshells — afraid to upset you with clear messages— and unintentionally keep you stuck.
When you restrict access to a toxic person, that’s not punishment. This kind of restriction is an act of love. And the same applies to substances that confuse your body and nervous system.
Ultra-processed foods.
Excess sugar.
Alcohol.
Corn syrup.
Seed oils.
If something consistently harms you, drains you, or pulls you away from positive change, this “restriction” is caring for yourself.
A moment for self-reflection and journaling:
- What food actually helps my body feel calmer and more at home AND does not make me feel guilty, heavy, and regretful later?
- What does it look like to have a healthy relationship with a toxic (emotionally unhealthy) person? (and then apply it to “bad” food)