The Other Day

Someone asked me, “As a dietitian, what’s one piece of nutrition advice you wish everyone knew?”

It’s not the first time I’ve been asked that. In fact, I get it pretty often. People are fascinated by nutrition. It’s a hot topic in today’s wellness culture. The internet and social media are flooded with opinions about food and diets. Most people won’t hesitate to share their thoughts, as if they have a degree in nutrition.

The more I think about this question, the more it bothers me. What bothers me even more is how casually people give out nutrition advice these days. It’s everywhere, almost like it’s being handed out like candy. (Which, yes, is a little ironic.)

Nutrition and health are complex. They are deeply personal and individual. I quickly jotted down just a few of the things that can shape someone’s relationship with food and health. This list is by no means complete:

• Finances

• Living situation

• Culture

• Religion

• Health conditions

• Family history

• Mental health

• Past experiences with dieting

• Eating disorder history

• Food allergies

• Cooking skills

• Access to food

No two people are living the same life. What helps one person might be totally inappropriate or even harmful for someone else.

So, back to that original question: “What’s one piece of nutrition advice you wish everyone knew?”

Honestly, I think it’s the wrong question. And I won’t answer it.

Or maybe I will: Don’t take nutrition advice from anyone who hasn’t taken the time to do a full clinical assessment and understand your full history.