- Annapolis Moms

“Lose 14 pounds in 2 weeks!”

The headline catches your eye at the grocery store checkout…

And why wouldn’t it?

In the depths of magazine pages like this, lies “secrets” to the elusive “summer body” most of us seek.

Many individuals – especially moms – feel compelled to engage in extreme measures to change their physique and this often comes at the price of their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.

Not only do these cleanses, crashes and fads come with empty promises of “feeling your best” but they also serve up sides of nutrient deficiencies and eating disorders through food deprivation.

Restricting specific foods or food groups can weaken the immune system, compromise organ function, plus fuel binge-eating behavior and an untrusting relationship with your body. They also foster obsessive thoughts around food, weight and body image.

A hot mom is a healthy one…

And should not be synonymous with harmful dietary practices.

So how does one take a holistic approach to achieve a healthy body – not only in summer but year-round?

It’s through…

Engaging in regular movement you enjoy
Embracing your uniqueness and celebrating your body’s strengths and capabilities to nurture a positive body image
Joining support groups and/or seeking help from healthcare professionals that provide guidance, strategies and accountability for a healthier self
And practicing food neutrality

What does it mean to practice food neutrality?

Food neutrality is an approach to eating that emphasizes a balanced and non-judgmental relationship with food.

In the world of food neutrality, “good foods” and “bad foods” are non-existent, therefore removing guilt and shame around meal choices.

If you peel back the layers of food labels and misinformation, then you would know that all foods serve a purpose – to nourish your body.

Food neutrality not only encourages you to give yourself complete permission to eat a variety of foods, but it also focuses on becoming attuned to your body’s hunger and fullness in a way that honors your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Because after all, nutrition is individual, and what works for you won’t work for someone else.

This practice helps you break away from the restrict-binge eating cycles, evicts the “all-or-nothing” approach from your mind and promotes a more sustainable way to nourish your body from the inside-out.

While food neutrality throws restrictions and rigid rules out the window, it does not disregard the nutritional-density of foods.

But to have enjoyment, satisfaction, flexibility, self-compassion and a hot mom summer, you must practice food neutrality, because that’s the only way to create a healthier you!

By Sara Heilman, Certified Nutrition & Health Coach, Personal Trainer

Sara Heilman – Voted Best Nutritionist 2020 and Best Holistic Health Coach 2023 in What’s Up? Magazine. She is a Certified Nutrition and Health Coach, plus Personal Trainer, who empowers her clients to become the best version of themselves by focusing on nutrition, mindset and movement. For more information visit www.StrongBoldHealthy.com for classes, programs and meal plans.

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