We understand what it’s like to struggle with your relationship with food.
In today’s society, certain foods are demonised, creating a toxic atmosphere around eating. When food is labelled as “bad,” it becomes taboo, leading to guilt and shame when consumed. Highly restrictive diets often reinforce this cycle, making it difficult to break free.
Why We Crave Certain Foods
We’ve all felt that undeniable craving for something fried, sweet, or comforting. Fighting those cravings all day can feel exhausting, especially when we just wish we could crave a salad instead. But it turns out, there are scientific reasons behind food cravings.
Research shows that cravings for calorie-dense foods are actually part of our DNA as an evolutionary survival mechanism to help humans endure harsh conditions like famine and freezing winters.
Not only this, but cravings can also be connected to emotions. Carb- and fat-rich foods can calm the brain by boosting serotonin production. This can help explain why stress and anxiety can often trigger cravings for starchy or sugary foods.
The Benefits of “Forbidden” Foods
Chocolate is often labelled as a “bad” food, yet science tells a different story. Small amounts of dark chocolate have been shown to improve heart health. And in fact, a 2014 study found that women with a negative mindset toward chocolate were less successful with long-term weight loss and more likely to struggle with body image dissatisfaction.
Carbohydrates are also given a bad rep, but did you know that the body needs carbohydrates for energy? Complex carbohydrates found in things like whole grains, fruits and vegetables will provide you with more sustained energy release and are more nutritionally dense, but there is no need to completely avoid or fear simple carbohydrates (bread, pasta) either.
Of course, moderation matters. Eating excessive amounts of any food won’t support your physical health. But allowing yourself to enjoy a sensible portion can actually improve mental wellbeing, which is equally important.
The Power of Language
The way we talk about food shapes how we think about it. For example, the term “cheat day” implies that enjoying higher-calorie foods is wrong. But the truth is, no single food is neither morally wrong, nor so harmful that it must be avoided entirely (unless you have allergies or intolerances).
Instead of labelling foods as good or bad, it’s more helpful to understand:
- Some foods are higher in calories, others lower.
- Some are more nutrient-dense, others less so.
- Balance and variety are what matter most.
Food isn’t evil. Eating something indulgent doesn’t make you “bad.” And enjoying a calorie-dense meal isn’t “cheating.”
A Kinder Approach to Eating
It’s time to set aside the shame and start being kinder to ourselves. Your relationship with food should nourish both your body and your mind.
So let go of the guilt, cut yourself some slack—and eat the cake!
