The Unspoken Truth About Dieting and Privilege
As a single mother struggling to make ends meet, I’ve come to realize that dieting is a luxury only the privileged can afford. After being unemployed for over a year and applying to over 160 jobs, I’ve been forced to rely on government assistance to survive. The stigma attached to receiving food stamps and Medicaid is suffocating, and it’s even harder when I see my friends living a life I can only dream of.
The Reality of Food Insecurity
I’ve had to adjust my life repeatedly, barely scraping by financially. My relationships have suffered, and I can no longer participate in social activities like happy hour or buying birthday presents. The constant stream of activities on my friends’ Facebook timelines is a harsh reminder of my privileged-free existence. While I try to make ends meet through freelancing, the rest of my week is spent putting out financial fires, applying for work, and waiting in line for hours at food pantries.
The Illusion of Dieting
I’ve tried to relate to my friends who have started diets, only to be met with suggestions to try keto or Whole30. But the truth is, these diets are inaccessible to someone like me. The elimination diet suggested by Whole30 is laughable when you consider the limited options available at food pantries. No legumes, grains, sugar, dairy, or baked goods means I’d have to survive on thin air. And keto? Forget about it. The cost of grass-fed butter, avocado oil, and bean-based pasta is prohibitively expensive for someone on a tight budget.
The Hidden Costs of Dieting
Diets cost money, and lots of it. A three-month subscription to Weight Watchers without any food costs $65. Complying with the rules of Whole30 for 30 days would set you back over $500! Meanwhile, households that receive food stamps get about $250 a month, barely enough to cover the cost of produce and meat. It’s impossible to imagine spending your entire income on food, yet that’s the reality for many people.
Shaming and Guilt
Worst of all, many dieters base their views on guilt and shame. They assume that people who can’t afford to diet are lazy or stupid. But the truth is, it’s not a matter of willpower; it’s a matter of access. When personal trainers and health enthusiasts shame people for their diets, they’re ignoring the very real challenges that come with poverty.
A Call to Action
The next time you feel the urge to post about your dieting success, consider your place of privilege. Bragging and shaming have a fine line separating them. Instead of pushing people to try your diet, take a moment to understand their circumstances. Remember, the food we receive for free is often unhealthy and unsuitable for dieting. Let’s champion each other’s successes without shaming those who can’t keep up.
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