Eat the Damn Bread
Today I want to talk about something close to my heart — Health at Every Size (HAES) — and the healing power of just eating the damn bread.
We live in a world obsessed with body trends, crash diets, and the illusion of perfection. Whether it’s the newest "dad bod" trend, keto, intermittent fasting, or the rise and fall of some celebrity’s fitness routine, there’s a constant pressure to conform — to change our bodies instead of learning to live in them. It’s exhausting. And honestly? It's harmful.
In my own journey and through the lens of eating disorder recovery, I came across the concept of Health at Every Size. It shifted my perspective completely. HAES reminds us that health is not determined by appearance, body size, or weight. It’s about fostering a compassionate, respectful relationship with your body — no matter what it looks like.
Here’s the truth: when you eat a slice of cake or a piece of sourdough bread, your body breaks it down the same way. Your body doesn’t judge you. It doesn’t moralize your food choices. It just wants fuel — and love. Yet, so many of us are trapped in a cycle of restriction and shame. We deny ourselves nourishment because we’ve been taught that thinner equals better, more worthy, more lovable.
But restriction is a major piece of the eating disorder puzzle. It’s not just about food — it’s about control, fear, and the belief that we are not enough as we are. And for those supporting someone struggling with food and body image, please hear this: your support matters. But be gentle. Don’t guilt someone for restricting. Don’t pressure them to eat in ways that feel overwhelming. Simply being there, offering consistent compassion, and creating a safe space can be powerful.
Eating can feel like a battle — even more so when there are unspoken expectations involved. So take a step back and ask: What’s the actual goal here? Maybe it's weight gain. Maybe it's maintaining. Maybe it’s just finishing a single meal without shame. Whatever it is, let’s not lose sight of what Health at Every Size really means. It’s not about ignoring health — it’s about redefining it. It's about honoring your body’s needs, rejecting diet culture, and finding peace within yourself.
Stepping away from toxic food and body messages takes courage. It’s a radical act of self-love. And it's not always easy — there will be moments of fear, frustration, and doubt. But there's also freedom waiting on the other side. Freedom to enjoy your life. To take up space. To eat the damn bread.
So here’s your gentle reminder:
You don’t have to earn your food.
You don’t have to shrink to be worthy.
You don’t have to fear carbs, cake, or your own hunger.
Eat the damn bread.
Not because I said so, but because your body deserves to be nourished — and so do you.
