Nutrition As Self-Care
Eating well… nourishing more than just our bodies.
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the various roles that food plays in our lives. We know that food nourishes the body, it gives us vitamins and minerals to keep us healthy and provides us with energy. But food does much more. It brings us together socially and culturally. Food is entertainment and can be fun. Cooking together, fond memories of a back-yard BBQ, or sharing your favorite dessert with a friend. Food as nourishment is self-care, physically, socially, and emotionally.
As a Registered Dietitian I am acutely aware of the role of nutrition in keeping our bodies healthy. Eat carrots for eyesight, fish oil for a healthy heart, fiber to reduce your risk of certain cancers. But what about the role nutrition plays in mental health? Of course, vitamin D deficiencies are associated with depression and low iron or vitamin B12 deficiency can leave you feeling fatigued and run down. But what about the social aspects of food, cultural connections, entertainment value… food as self-care?
The social aspects of food are seen everywhere. Having a meal with a loved one can foster conversations and fond memories that bond us together. First dates often happen over a meal. Almost every celebration has a food item or meal connection. There’s an even larger connection with food and communities. Pride in one’s culture is often related to food. What better way to learn about a culture than by experiencing the food?
Let’s bring it closer to home. Self-care is taking care of yourself. Getting your needs met physically, emotionally, mentally. Give yourself this gift. Especially in these trying times. If, like me, you’re spending a lot of time home alone these days, treat yourself to the formalities of a meal. Make or order one of your favorites. Set the table and use what’s available to make the meal special. Maybe its special plates or fresh flowers on the table. Turn off technology and spend time being present. Pamper yourself, you’re worth it.
Maybe your longing for connections. If you’re not ready to go out yet, plan a zoom meal. Order from the same restaurant and have dinner conversation over the phone, FaceTime, or other platform. Share a recipe and make it “together” virtually. Schedule a virtual dinner party or coffee date. If you have kids, let them make cupcakes with grandma over the phone. Get creative.
Taking care of ourselves is more important than ever. Feed your body, celebrate culture, come together around food and have conversation. It might not be in the same ways that we are used to but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done.
Kari Tuggle-Nord, ASW, RD, CHES
Eating Disorder Program Coordinator