We live in a country where “dieting” and “depriving yourself
from food” is a normal part of growing up. It has become common knowledge that “dieting”
is not referred to as nourishing your body and changing your lifestyle. In
fact, dieting is referred to as a temporary and ineffective weight loss
mechanism.
Growing up in a house of
constant criticism about my weight and physical appearance and how it
contributed to my eating disorders are the main reasons why I feel that this
topic is extremely crucial for the well-being of your kids.
Being aware of how you talk about food and weight when kids
are around can prevent them from developing a series of eating disorders
throughout their life. We need to be role models to our kids and younger siblings;
we need to be more thoughtful when we say negative comments about weight and
food in their presence!
I’ve noticed mothers who comment on how they should lose
weight, or talk about who lost or gained weight. They might do it
unintentionally, but it teaches kids that people are their appearance. Mothers who
comment on their kids’ weight, please stop doing that. There is no need to
redirect your kids’ thoughts to their size. Teach your kids that food is
nourishment and that exercising makes you feel energetic and is fun. Please do not criticize people who are overweight, there are overweight people who have a healthier lifestyle than you do. Develop
healthy eating habits in your kids from the start, this will teach them to get
in touch with their natural hunger and satiety.
Modeling a healthy, balanced lifestyle is the best approach
for your kids to maintain a healthy weight and mind throughout their life.
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