There’s a lot to be said for examining the way you “think” about food.
I don’t mean think about food as in, “What will I make for dinner?”, “What SHOULD I eat for dinner?”, or “Is what I ate for dinner okay for me to eat for dinner?”
Those are “thoughts” about food, for sure. What I’m talking about is your MINDSET around your food.
In my experience, post-treatment survivors tend to approach food with either a peaceful or panicked mindset.
Here are three ways to tell which mindset you’re in most often:
NUMBER ONE
A panicked mindset thinks one bite of cookie or one sip of wine causes recurrence.
A peaceful mindset understands how food impacts cancer recurrence risk and makes food and drink choices based on those facts, thereby eliminating “one bite” panic.
Why is that important? Because understanding the power of nutrition in supporting survivorship health allows you to feel in charge of your food choices.
NUMBER TWO
A panicked mindset thinks there’s NO CHOICE in the foods available, because following a very strict (and restrictive) diet is the only way.
A peaceful mindset knows that a strict, restrictive diet isn’t a guarantee of no recurrence and. . .it’s not sustainable.
Why is that important? Because choosing foods that make you feel your best while recognizing there’s room for any food you’d like to eat alleviates guilt and shame.
NUMBER THREE
A panicked mindset thinks following lots of rules around meal timing, food types and portion sizes is the “safe” way to eat
A peaceful mindset knows that food rules make people want to do the exact opposite thing, so chooses not to use them
Why is that important? Because using evidence-based guidelines, nutrition facts and body cues is a reliable, flexible way to eat in a way that helps you feel your best!
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your dietitian or doctor for guidance specific to your needs.
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