Diet culture. It's especially prevelant in the US because we have the biggest market to exploit. Companies that produce "junk food" also buy up weight-loss products and sell them so they can capture both ends of the market. They're in control of the weight gain, and weight loss cycle. In human history, we've never had to deal with the abundance of calories that is available to us--all of the time. It's a tricky situation, no doubt.
I'm incredibly passionate about this topic, as I have spent the last 7 years coaching individuals and unpacking what holds them back from achieving their health goals.
Often, my clients come to me with a lot of beliefs about their bodies, what they should and *shouldn't* eat, and how they should move their bodies. But, they have no real idea of what is a health pursuit, and what is buying into diet culture.
The popular podcast, Sounds Like A Cult recently published a podcast that gave a wonderful overview of Diet Culture in the US. Take a listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cult-of-diet-culture/id1566917047?i=1000593446849
I've noticed the landscape change, as well. Diet culture is being repackaged as "Wellness". As a Health and Wellness coach who practices data-driven, scientifically backed strategies, it's important to me that my clients understand the shift that is occurring. This is careful marketing, nothing new or novel.
Health information is ever-evolving, and that is part of what makes this tricky as well. Doing your best to be aware is the first step, and the second? Enlist a professional who truly has your well-being at heart, and is educated and can help you understand your health, and how to get to your health goals. There is a reason I don't market myself with "progress" photos. The physical change someone undergoes as part of their health journey, is the most surface "result" I could offer. What I'd rather offer my clients is long-term understanding of their health, what the current science supports, and creating strategies that are realistic for my clients to achieve.
If you feel you could use some guidance and someone who is truly invested in your health and overall well-being, you've found the right coach. Reach out and let's chat!
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