As I’ve blogged about before, the way we perceive food (i.e. from a place of stress/ fear/ negativity versus from a place of celebration/ connection/ nourishment) can have a really powerful influence on how our body RESPONDS to that food. From an evolutionary perspective, it’s thought that perception results in expectation, which prepares the body to better cope with what’s being anticipated.
This is beneficial when our perception is based on truth, because the body can respond in the appropriate way. The problem arises when people become confused, and their perception about particular food/ foods becomes distorted.
We’re bombarded with mixed messages around food which is the crux of the confusion, from ultra-processed foods being marketed as being ‘clean, healthy and green’; to wholefoods like meat, eggs and dairy and even fruit being labelled as ‘inflammatory, damaging or harmful’. With mixed messages all around, it’s easy to see why there is so much confusion and fear around food. In fact, data shows that 31% of Australian adolescents experience disordered eating, a statistic that I find deeply unsettling.
This is where food culture becomes critical to the conversation. Food culture is the connection, beliefs, and experience we have with food and our food system. Unfortunately, with the rise of a globalised and industrialised food system, the past few decades has seen staggering losses in our collective yet unique food cultures, which I believe is compounding to the current state of food confusion, fear and disordered eating.
In my opinion, the goal is to either be involved in or create a food culture that aligns with your values, is positive, multilayered and is about more than just food (i.e. it includes tradition/ ritual/ stories/ memories/ family/ friends/ community).
So my question to you is, how are are building a positive food culture?
Are you reviving old food traditions or creating new ones?
Are you passing along family traditions to your children?
Are you eating more produce, and less packet food?
Are you continuously building on your cooking skills?
Are you surrounding yourself with people who bring extra layers of wisdom and experience?
Bottom Line
In the wise words of Michael Pollan, “Food is not just about fuel. Food is about family, food is about community, and food is about identity. And when you nourish all those things, we get well. ”
Until next time,
Stacey.
To hear what our family does and to learn more about food culture and the power of perception, click HERE for a video I’ve done for the members of the Regeneration program. The regen program starts in THREE days and I’ve got space for ONE more lucky person. To secure this spot, don’t hesitate to get in touch.