I recently found journals and diaries from middle school, high school and college. I sat down to read them in chronological order the other day and I did not even get to page two before I mentioned that “I ate too much.” By page five I talk about going on a diet and trying to get to a certain number of the scale. On page ten I am rating myself as “good” or “bad” depending on what I ate. Tears filled my eyes acknowledging how much my eating disorder has stolen from me.
So as you can probably tell, my heart sank when I saw WW’s introduce a weight-loss app for children ages 8-17, called Kurbo. When I looked into it further and saw that the app used the spotlight method- green for foods that are okay to eat like fruits and vegetables, yellow for foods like lean proteins and pasta that you need to “watch your portions” with and red for foods like candy and soda that you need to stop and think about how to “budget them in,” my heart sank deeper.
Please do not get this app for your children. Please do not allow your child to download this app. It will be like giving your child ammunition which can explode into disordered eating. Dieting is the number one predictor for eating disorders. Instead follow these guidelines to help nourish your brains and bodies.
- All foods fit! Give yourself unconditional permission to eat all foods. Then, connect with your body and notice how your body feels before and after you eat. Did the food give you energy? Did it make you tired? Was it satiating? Were you satisfied?
- Instead of using external cues, like the stoplight method, use introspective awareness. What does your body feel like eating? Are you craving anything in particular? Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.
- Eat a variety of foods. Each week try something new. I often tell my clients to buy one new thing at the store each week. I tried a new vegan coconut granola this week and I love it!
- Cope ahead- life is busy and it is crucial to eat your meals and snacks so your body has consistent energy. Planning meals ahead may be helpful. Also keep three to five different snacks on hand. Convenience is key.
- Practice body positivity. Acknowledge that everyone has different bodies. We are all unique and we are all beautiful. The unattainable beauty ideal in our society is despicable. Be yourself.
- Encourage “joyful movement.” I’ve decided to throw the word “exercise” out the window. Our bodies are made to move so pick something that you enjoy individually or as a family. Maybe it’s a game of tag or a walk after dinner, hula hooping or dancing at the beach.
Full recovery is possible!
Serenity Always,
Meredith
