All bods are summer bods

We have all heard the term "summer bod" at some point in our lives. This term is usually thrown around in conversations, or displayed on magazine covers, referring to losing weight for the sake of looking better in a bathing suit, shorts, and other summer clothing. Although this term, as well as other body image related phrases, may seem innocent and playful, these can negatively impact confidence and self-image. One's body image is a thought or feeling that a person has towards themselves and their appearance1, but it should not be relied upon to define health status. The idea that health is defined by a certain weight and size is fueling an unhealthy focus on weight-loss and driving the desire to partake in weight-loss diets or self-prescribed quick-fixes that can cause more harm than good. Research has shown that weight-loss interventions like dieting often result in weight regain and weight cycling which can be harmful to an individual's physical and mental health. A recent article in the Journal of Obesity promotes a more "weight-inclusive" approach vs a "weight normative" approach to healthcare, with practitioners focusing on the whole patient in front of them, rather than viewing them through the lens of their number on the scale. Such an approach in healthcare and self-care puts less emphasis on weight-loss only interventions and more emphasis on reconnecting with one's whole body. This may look like respecting and accepting all weights and sizes, eating in a manner that is flexible which allows us to listen to the bodies hunger cues and consider nutritional needs, and to partake in movement that is enjoyable and beneficial beyond just burning calories. Healthy living should be associated with a lifestyle rather than physical appearance or body weight. It is important to acknowledge and respect the bodies we are currently living in. It is easy to be self-critical, body-shaming ourselves, but the focus should be on our abilities. The strength of the legs that allow us to walk, the power of the brain to solve a problem at work, the ability of the skin to provide a layer of protection to our other precious body systems. The body's capabilities and strengths surpass the number on a scale or perceived look in a mirror. If we respect our bodies and what they do for us, we will want to care for them, allowing us to enjoy long, full lives. A "weight normative" approach with a focus on ideal body weight and restricting calorie or other food components to achieve it has been a huge culprit in demonizing food groups in society, even leading to unnecessary elimination of classifications of foods and beneficial nutrients, such as carbohydrates or fats. There is no such thing as a "bad" food, unless we are talking about spoiled food which may cause food-borne illness. With the exception of diagnosed food intolerances and allergies, all foods can fit into a healthful eating plan, when the emphasis is on health & well-being, which includes enjoyment. This allows a place for our favorite foods, while recognizing our body's need of nutrients from all 5 food groups every day, so we aren't denying ourselves. Our bodies are made up of complex systems designed for self-regulation and self-preservation. The human body knows when it needs to eat and when it doesn't, and it communicates this through hormones which trigger hunger cues. The body will provide feelings of fullness or hunger that correlate with the needs it has in that moment. It is important to be tuned into these feelings and respond to them appropriately. Rather than listening to the "noise" of social media or cultural pressures to have a supermodel physique, we should be listening to our own hunger and fullness cues (as well as our thirst cues, of course). Aside from fuel in the form of food, healthy bodies require movement, but not just to burn excess energy, but also to keep our bodies flexible and functional and to promote circulation that keeps oxygen and nutrients flowing to all the parts. Getting more physically active can be a daunting idea. People often think of weightlifting or running, which are activities not everyone enjoys. Physical activity can be anything that involves movement. This could be dancing, walking the dog, riding bikes, swimming, or even gardening. It also helps to have a partner to keep us accountable and the activity more fun. The goal is to simply move more in any way that is a sustainable and enjoyable habit, and which utilizes the skeletal muscles and cardiovascular system to keep them strong. A weight-inclusive approach to body size does not encourage or criticize weight-loss. Sometimes, weight-loss is an outcome of lifestyle changes, but it should not be the deciding factor when considering overall health. Health can be achieved by a lifestyle, and it can be practiced by respecting all body shapes and sizes, eating in a manner that is flexible that aligns with hunger cues and a balanced approach, and making movement an enjoyable part of our daily routine. Let's put our focus not on summer bods but on all that summer brings - the fresh foods, the outdoor events and activities and the added daytime hours to enjoy them with family and friends. Elizabeth Burkhalter is a dietetic intern serving with the OSU Extension.