![\"How](\"https:\/\/foresthillsada.eatsmartbewell.com\/home\/wp-content\/gallery\/articles\/HowFoodImpactsHealth.jpg\")
<\/h1>\n<\/h1>\nHow Food Impacts Health<\/span><\/p>\n There are many types of health, in addition to physical health, and it\u2019s necessary to be aware of the true role of food.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Food and eating significantly impact mental and social health. It\u2019s important to not sacrifice one type of health for another, and viewing food as only relevant to physical health can quickly create other health problems. When we look at food as something to be restricted or controlled for weight loss, we miss the social and emotional benefits of food.<\/p>\n Mental Health<\/span> Research suggests that having critical thoughts and judgment around food negatively impacts mental health, while practicing flexibility and compassion can improve self-worth and happiness. Additionally, adequate and balanced eating helps prevent anxiety and depression and makes us more effective at managing difficult emotions. Getting lunch with friends or celebrating a special occasion with a meal are important ways to make memories. Strict diets and food rules make it difficult to connect with others or be flexible with eating times and places. Also, when we are concerned about making \u201cbad\u201d food choices, counting calories, or worried about our weight, it can be tough to be fully present with our friends and enjoy time together.<\/p>\n Healthy eating isn\u2019t just about nutrition. Don\u2019t miss out on the important emotional and social aspects of eating by only focusing on eating \u201chealthier.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" How Food Impacts Health Food clearly impacts physical health. Not meeting your body\u2019s nutritional needs can cause low energy, nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, and a variety of medical concerns. But most people don\u2019t consider how food impacts other types of … Continue reading
\nFood clearly impacts physical health. Not meeting your body\u2019s nutritional needs can cause low energy, nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, and a variety of medical concerns. But most people don\u2019t consider how food impacts other types of health, which can leave them feeling disconnected and depressed. <\/p>\n
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\nFood is meant to be enjoyed! Making rules about good or bad food takes the pleasure out of eating and negatively impacts health.
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\nWe lose enjoyment of food when we make food choices based on what we \u201cshould\u201d eat or what has the lowest calories rather than intuitively listening to what our body needs. When we struggle to follow diets or break food rules, we\u2019re at risk for feeling guilty and shameful. <\/p>\n
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\nSocial Health<\/span>
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\nFood is also social and many social events and cultural traditions center around eating.<\/strong> <\/p>\n