😡 How to Handle Diet Culture BS in the Moment

It doesn't have to be a whole thing.

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🎉 Happy Friday, Friends!

We've all been in a situation where body-related topics come up and we can't get through to someone.

😭 Whether it's over the dinner table and your almond grandma insists keto is the only way to eat, or...
😭 Your best girlfriend suddenly thinks that losing ten pounds is going to solve all her problems and she's fighting you on it, or...
😭 Someone in a big group out for brunch thinks that maple syrup is going to give everyone diabetes.

It's a delicate situation. Let's talk about how to proceed.

First of all, some of these situations feel genuinely unsafe. I want you to listen to that feeling. Sometimes, the person saying hateful or diet culture-y stuff about your body is your doctor, your boss, or your partner. In those situations, honor your discomfort by speaking up – in some cases, just saying something like, "I'd prefer not to be weighed in the office today," or "please don't comment on what I'm eating," can do the trick.

Many people haven't unpacked their relationships with diet culture, but they can take direction when you're open about your needs.

Pay close attention to how someone responds when you point out what makes you uncomfortable. Many folx are going to appreciate you and respond accordingly. Some won't. Some people are fearful to release diet culture because it makes them feel safe, in control, and part of the norm. (And if it's your doctor but they don't take you seriously, consider switching!)

In those cases, remind yourself that this isn't about you.

Policing someone else's body is very often about the person doing the policing and their relationship with themselves. It might come out like they're attacking you or weaponizing their concern for you. You can separate yourself from their statements by remembering that this is personal for them, too.

But what about in situations where you can't say something? What if you already have a contentious relationship with this person, or you're having an uncomfortable conversation over the dinner table where other people are listening?

Silence is powerful.

You don't have to acknowledge their statements in any direction. It's okay to just remind yourself that this problem is bigger than you and simply nod or smile. You should still remind yourself that diet culture is rampant and not everyone is on the same page, and perhaps even challenge yourself to feel compassion for someone who is still in its clutches.

I hope this reminder is helpful to you next time someone says something about food, movement, or your body that feels misaligned. As women in peri/menopause, we deal with enough BS coming from every direction. Good boundaries, internal and external, can help you navigate.

With you as we stick to our values,
Dana