When it comes to eating it seems like everyone has an opinion: either we’re eating too much, not enough, too unhealthy or too “clean”. Those comments can get ANNOYING and can be really triggering. But how do you go about handling these food comments? What’s the best response? I’m glad you asked because I’ve got the answer!
3 Ways To Handle Food Comments
#1. Have A Response To Comments About Food Ready
If you’re dreading your family Christmas party because you’re worried over the comments about food Aunt Kathy and Uncle Tom are going to make about the food you’re eating my guess if you may have a little inkling of what those comments they quite possible are going to make might be. So, instead of simply worrying about it be proactive and have a few responses ready. Here are a few of my faves:
- Oh, that’s sweet of you to care!
- When it comes to food I listen to my body.
- Oh, no, I don’t believe in dieting or restricting food.
- I’m living with no food rules now and it’s SO much better.
- Thanks for your concern! But I trust my body.
- I’ve stopped stressing about food and it’s actually made me feel better than ever!
Etc. Etc. You can be as passive or cheeky with these as you want, depending on how close you are to Kathy and Tom. But the point here is don’t let yourself simply be a worry wart about it, put your mind at ease by having a response ready.
#2. Use A Mantra Or Affirmation
Another way to handle comments about food is to do some mind work of your own. Before heading into the dreaded party have a mantra or affirmation ready that you can repeat to yourself when you feel triggered by what someone else has to say. Maybe they say “Oh, having the cake I see!” You could use an affirmation such as “I trust my body to guide my food choices” or “I have no reason to feel guilty for eating ANY food.” or “Food is meant to be enjoyed so enjoyed it shall be!” The list is endless! You can find way more example in this post of my top 20 intuitive eating affirmations.
#3. Ask For Support
Another thing that you can do is ask for support from someone there. Maybe it’s your mom, sister, best friend or co-worker. Tell them you’re feeling anxious over what people might say to you and that it might trigger you. They can help give you a pick-me-up if you need it or even spit out a comment in reaction to something someone says. For instance, say the co-worker who is ALWAYS on a diet says “Oh, you’re having another cookie?” Your friend can come in and say “You go, girlfriend!” and give you a little smile. Sometimes that simple support means the WORLD!
Above all, remember that no one else gets to have a say in your eating habits but YOU. I do believe that we need to develop a thick skin when it comes to diet culture because, unfortunately, I don’t think it’s going anywhere. But just remember, thick skin takes time to grow. I didn’t learn how to let food comments roll off my back overnight, and if I am being honest neither will you. BUT, you can get that skin to be nice and thick after repeating these 3 tips!
If you’re still feeling anxious about the holidays be sure to snag my free (yes, FREE) e-book, The Ultimate 5 Step Guide To Food Freedom, to help you overcome your food fears around the mountain of frosted sugar cookies and peanut brittle!
Keep living a happy and delicious life, girlfriend!
XOXO
-Colleen
Want more posts like this? You might like these:
Ann says
Omg I thought my family was the only one that commented on people’s plates! My fave is tip #1. Now that I think about it, that would make me feel much better than awkwardly pretending I didn’t hear them 😂.
Colleen says
HAHA! That’s a great response!
Lily says
My favorite response to people who would comment about my food choices at work was to answer with a question. They would many times say, “Look at Lily, she’s eating so healthfully.” And my response was, “What is health?” This would generally make them pause at least, and I got a few, “Well, that’s a good point.” Or “Hmmms”. I like to challenge people on their preconceptions. I also would just try and let them know I genuinely liked what I was eating.
Colleen says
ooooh I love that! Thanks for sharing!
Sophie Hill says
I totally agree with these points! Great post! I am tired of feeling embarrassed for what I choose to eat in a day or what I order off the menu. Thank you for sharing!
Colleen says
Own those food choices, Sophie! No need to feel embarrassed! So happy this was helpful!