What are healthy approaches to dieting?

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Food rules are guidelines you have about what, when, or how much you eat, and are typically unhelpful.

They can create anxiety, social isolation, self-criticism, and guilt when broken, especially if held rigidly.

You may think of yourself as “bad” or “good” based on what you eat, and whether you follow your food rule.

It is helpful to make flexible food choices that honor your body and create ease and self-compassion.

Food rules are any guidelines you have about what, when, or how much you eat. At first glance, food rules can seem helpful. For example, a person may have a guideline around needing to eat a certain amount of protein or vegetables each day, not eating a lot of sugar, or limiting carbohydrates. In some circumstances, such as having a health condition or food allergy, certain food rules may be medically necessary.

In general, however, food rules tend to do more harm than good, particularly when rigidly held and followed. This is why.

The Dark Side of Food Rules

Food rules can lead to food restriction and not eating certain foods that you define as unhealthy or “bad.” In turn, these rules can lead to anxiety, social isolation, self-criticism, and guilt, especially if held rigidly or if broken.

You may call yourself “bad” or........

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