I’m going to do something a little different with this week’s Wine & Wellness Wednesday. I’m going on a rant.
No diet shaming.
Ever.
None of this: “YOU ARE CRUEL IF YOU AREN’T VEGAN.”
None of this: “EVERYONE SHOULD GIVE UP CHEESE.”
None of this: “EAT ALL MEAT ALL THE TIME.”
Yes, I know. I’m shouting.
More of this: “I went gluten-free; here’s why, here’s how it works for me, here’s why I think it’s beneficial. I’d encourage you to give it a try and see how it works for you.”
More of this: “I really enjoy eating a vegetarian diet and here’s why. I feel better when I don’t eat meat, both for physical and ethical reasons.”
Yes, I know. I think my way is best. (Don’t we all, all the time?)
ALL PEOPLE ARE DIFFERENT.
I know, I know. I’m shouting again. Let me say that one more time, with added punctuation for emphasis.
ALL. PEOPLE. ARE. DIFFERENT!
If you choose to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet for ethical reasons, that is your choice and it is to be respected. It is not to be used to badger, or shame, or degrade other people for their choices. If you choose to be or must be gluten-free, same thing. Dietary choices or necessities are not things to use to badger other people into making choices and changes.
It is absolutely critical that each person figure out the best diet that works for them. Asking for help with figuring it out is an excellent plan. (And of course, a health coach is a good resource!) I’ll say it again. All people are different. Not every diet is appropriate for every person.
When has anyone, ever, changed their mind about anything, ever, because someone yelled at them and told them their choices were cruel or stupid or wrong or bad?
When has anyone, ever, changed their mind about anything, ever, because someone sat down and carefully, respectfully discussed the whys & wherefores?
That second one? That’s a whole lot more likely.
If a loved one asks for support or opinions when selecting a diet to include in their lifestyle, give it to them, with respect and with love. The support piece is extremely important for success.
Get educated. Get informed. Pick a diet that works for you. (And sometimes, break the rules.) Share that information, joyously, energetically, gently, and respectfully. You might just encourage other people to do the same.
Cheers! Here’s to your health!!