How the Idea of 'Healthy Eating' Can Become Harmful

The concept of "healthy eating" appears to be our new cultural fixation. We are constantly flooded with articles and advertisements consisting of elaborate juices, recipes, and lists of super foods, that all claim to be able to instill us with optimal health. So what on earth does it mean to "eat healthy?" There are many different camps that have opposing viewpoints as to what constitutes "healthy eating." Some people have jumped on the "I eat only organic" bandwagon, whereas others are fixated on the concept of "clean eating," and still others promote the "low carb" diet with an almost religious zeal. The first problem that I have with the idea of "healthy eating" is that often it is simply just a more socially acceptable way for people to attempt to control their weight by manipulating their food choices. Many people I know who speak about trying to "eat healthy," paradoxically practice other habits (such as smoking, tanning, and excessive drinking), which demonstrate that they may not be as "health conscious" as they are attempting to appear. Saying that they are simply trying to "eat healthy" is a way for some people to justify what may become restrictive or rigid eating habits, and could even serve to mask the development of disordered eating or eating disorders. Research indicates that diets "do not work" in regards to maintaining weight-loss in the long term. Further, labeling your diet as "healthy eating" or a "lifestyle change," does not change the fact that we are...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news