In a world where we often focus solely on the physical aspects of health, it’s crucial to recognize the profound impact that trauma and toxic stress can have on our relationship with food, our bodies, and our overall well-being. Trauma-informed nutrition is a powerful approach that encourages us to look beyond the surface and understand the deeper, often invisible, factors that shape our habits, beliefs, and health outcomes.
Our health is not a matter of making “healthy choices” – we all know professionals can be all over the map about this – but rather a complex interplay between our experiences, our biology, and our sense of safety and well-being. Trauma, in all its forms – from adverse childhood experiences to food insecurity, discrimination, and our memories of mealtime in the past – can all impact the way we perceive our food, body, and health.
The behaviors we often label as “unhealthy” – such as dieting, overeating, stress eating, or our hyperfocus on calorie-dense convenience foods – may not actually be choices at all. These coping mechanisms can be deeply rooted in the need to survive and find a sense of security in a world that has been disrupted by trauma and adversity. For some, a fast food chain may represent joy and satisfaction meeting caloric needs in childhood. For others, it may represent an unhealthy addictive choice.
There is a staggering prevalence of trauma, with six in ten people having experienced at least one adverse childhood event, and one in six having experienced four or more. These experiences can have far-reaching consequences, not only developing mindsets and habits but also contributing to the development of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Here’s the unbelievable part – the higher risk is because of genetic responsiveness, not habits or behaviors!
Trauma-informed care recognizes that healing goes beyond simply adjusting our lifestyle habits. It requires a holistic approach that addresses the emotional, psychological, and social factors that shape our relationship with food, health, and our bodies. This calls for compassion, understanding, and a willingness to listen to the stories and vulnerabilities of those we serve.
By adopting a trauma-informed perspective, healthcare professionals, educators, nutritionists, and community leaders can create safe and supportive environments where individuals can openly explore their experiences, challenge harmful beliefs, and begin the process of healing and reclaiming their power over their health and well-being. The key is educated and sensitive staff who avoid judgment and create a safe place for exploring and bringing a sense of curiosity to the thoughts and behaviors.I’m writing this as a powerful reminder that our health is not just a matter of individual choices, but a complex interplay of our lived experiences, our biology, and the social and environmental exposure that shape our lives. By embracing a trauma-informed approach, we can empower ourselves to break free from the harsh judgments and criticism of the past and build a healthier, more resilient future. If you are interested in learning more, let’s chat!