How to Manage Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) Foods

We’ve all probably experienced a fear of missing out (FOMO) at some time or another. Social media makes it so easy to see all the things other people are doing that we aren’t. It also allows us to see all the different foods other people are eating (or just taking pictures of) that we might feel jealous of because we believe only people in certain bodies are able to eat certain foods, our food doesn’t look as good, or because we have allergies/intolerances that prevent us from eating certain foods. In our daily lives we may see certain seasonal foods we feel we can only have at certain times of year, we’re at an event and our favorite food is being served, or everyone else around is having the same thing and it looks good. Food FOMO is going to come up. How could it not? But let’s take a look at some ways to help manage the feelings that arise so it doesn’t ultimately lead to feeling worse about ourselves.

Why Should I Eat When Nothing Matters?

Have you ever felt like nothing really matters? Like nothing you do will ever make a difference and your life doesn’t mean anything? That everything is completely random and life is cruel and good people don’t get what they deserve?

So whether it’s from the latest terrorist attack, a natural disaster, a depressive episode, or a personal situation, the last thing on your mind is eating. When nothing matters, why should you bother nourishing yourself?

There is No Prize for Restricting the Foods You Enjoy

“But Christina,” you say, “the prize for restricting these foods is weight loss.”
Or the prize is that you’ll live longer because you’ll be so much healthier.
Or the prize might be seeming superior to those around you for resisting food.

But the truth is, there is no prize.

You’re Not a Bad Person for Eating a Cookie

We all agree these people are bad. But how can you fit into that same category of “bad” when you eat a cookie you weren’t planning on having. You can’t say you were so bad for eating extra foods. You’re not bad; you’re just human.

You Will Not Become Nutrient Deficient Overnight

You will not become nutrient deficient from one day of imbalanced eating. It takes time. And you may start to feel not so good if you’re constantly eating the same thing, so you will eventually gravitate towards something different.

Trust that your body will get what it needs.

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