Intuitive Eating Discussion: Segment 5
In the previous segments, from Part 1 to Part 4, we’ve explored a variety of topics like managing cravings, integrating nutrition and exercise in intuitive eating, understanding different kinds of hunger, and the art of evading guilt. The flood of questions continues, which I’m thrilled about! Here’s the fifth installment of our Intuitive Eating Discussion. Have a query of your own? Leave it in the comments, and I might cover it in an upcoming article.
During my time trying out the Whole30 diet, one compelling perspective I encountered was the belief that modern food researchers are introducing sugar into everything we consume to intensify our “sugar habit” and ensure we keep purchasing their items. How would a proponent of intuitive eating react to such a claim?
While it’s undeniable that there have been shifts in our food supply and that more sugars have been incorporated into many dishes, this doesn’t necessarily make them addictive. Research indicates that addiction-like tendencies arise when there’s an imposed restriction on sugar consumption. So, contrary to the goal, diets like Whole30 that promote sugar exclusion can lead to intensified sugar cravings and an amplified sense of losing control post the diet phase.
The very notion of undertaking a “detox” might be the trigger for bingeing or feeling overwhelmed around sugar-loaded items. Those who believe they are “hooked” to sugar might be reacting to their own self-imposed limitations on such food items, enhancing the desire when these are made available. This isn’t genuine addiction, but more a manifestation of disrupted eating patterns.
Though I have reservations about my physical appearance, I don’t resonate with many narratives associated with larger-sized individuals in public spaces. Can larger people still experience size advantage?
Excellent point to discuss! Size advantage varies, and those who are closer to being slim or fall within the “straight sized” category (typically, if you wear a US size 12-14 or smaller) tend to benefit more. Even among larger individuals, there’s a hierarchy of advantage, with those on the smaller end of the scale experiencing more privilege.
Ash from the Fat Lip podcast crafted a graph indicating the variations in size and introduced the term “infinifat” to describe the extreme end. Linda’s blog, Fluffy Kitten Party, delves deeper into this with her post titled “Fategories: Understanding the Fat Spectrum”. As individuals progress up this spectrum, privileges based on size decrease. Those slightly larger might still be described as “curvy” and might face fewer challenges in public spaces compared to those who are “infinifat”.
Thus, the answer is yes, even larger individuals can witness varying levels of size advantage. Remember, this privilege isn’t about personal feelings towards oneself, but societal reactions. As Linda rightly points out in her blog, privilege is often invisible to those who have it.
My journey of embracing my evolving body is ongoing. But as it alters, I feel certain physical activities, including intimacy, becoming more challenging. The pleasure from intimacy doesn’t feel the same anymore. I yearn for the sensations I felt when I was slimmer.
Experiencing body discomfort or fluctuating body image sentiments is a universal phenomenon. Blaming your current body size for any unease during activities might not be the full picture. It’s crucial to introspect about the root cause.
For insights on the topic, the Sex Gets Real podcast by Dawn Serra has an episode on intimacy for larger individuals, featuring author Elle Chase of Curvy Girl Sex. Dawn’s podcast and site also offer numerous other valuable resources.
Your struggles might also be linked to body image issues affecting your confidence during intimate moments. Recognizing one’s worth and embracing intimacy without guilt or judgment is vital for everyone, irrespective of body size.
