Fat talk: Why you need to stop using the “f” word

The “F-bomb”

If you're guilty of fat talk - even if you think it could be helping you achieve your weight loss goals - you should stop... right now.

Most of us call ourselves fat without even realising it. We ask if our jeans make us look fat, we skip dessert because we, “Don't want to get fat” - we do it all.

The dangers of fat talk

According to Ramani Durvasula, PhD, using the word “fat” to describe ourselves, is more dangerous than we think. It leaves us with a chronically poor sense of body image and a poor sense of self.

So how do we learn to drop this “f” word, for good?

Stop the pressure

Instead of trying to squeeze into tight or skinny clothes because you feel like that's the norm, wear what suits your body shape - at this moment - and own it. You'll find that the kinder you are to yourself, the more beautiful you'll start to feel... and look.

Replace and embrace

It might be hard in the beginning, so try and come up with five words you can use to describe yourself and your soul - not your body - instead of the word 'fat'. Stick these words onto the mirror if you have to and embrace the beautiful person you truly are.

Pretend you're talking to your kids

Or loved ones for that matter. Would you call them fat? So why do it to yourself? Start thinking about yourself as a loved one and you'll give yourself that much-needed daily body image boost.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you might also like to read: Banish body bashing for good

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