Making a Change

• REMEMBER: ALL BODIES DESERVE RESPECT. Understanding that body dissatisfaction is not a “women’s only” domain may help dismantle unrealistic standards and open doors for genuine conversations about men’s body image struggles.

• CULTIVATE COMMUNITY. The challenges men face regarding body image satisfaction are real and require safe communities in which to process and verbalize these struggles. Creating a culture of respect, consideration, and vulnerability among men is a first step towards dismantling the culture of silence around body image struggles. Create safe spaces where men feel more comfortable being vulnerable and honest about their body image struggles — there is power in authenticity!

• MOVE FROM BODY SHAME TO ACCEPTANCE. A note for men who may be years into dieting with little to no long-term ‘success’ with weight loss OR weight gain plans: Bodies are not meant to be “controlled.” Making peace with the body you have and refusing to continue funneling time, money, and mental/emotional energy into changing your body size or shape will free you to live in line with your values. Movement away from disordered strategies aimed at changing body composition toward body acceptance and trust can help reduce the body shame so prevalent in our bodyobsessed culture.

• SET BOUNDARIES. Refusing to participate in name-calling, bullying, or even “good-natured” teasing among friends may open new avenues for humor expression and connection. Opting out of comments or jokes about other men’s bodies may prevent unintentional harm. Set boundaries with friends, family, or strangers who cross lines with body-centric comments or nicknames.

• SEEK SUPPORT. Check out Aaron Flores’ Instagram page @AaronFloresRDN or his “Men Unscripted” podcast. Reach out to Memphis Nutrition Group for help navigating negative body image and guidance in fueling for performance and health rather than body modification.

For personalized guidance when integrating Intuitive Eating and sports nutrition into your fueling strategy, reach out to the Registered Dietitians at Memphis Nutrition Group.

By Audrey Stimpson, MPS, CNFC