How I’m rewriting my relationship with food

By: Sydney Froelich

I grew up as the kid who only ate five things, and the truth is…not much has changed. 

My diet has always been a rotation of chicken parm, pasta, grilled cheese, French fries, and pizza. So basically every comfort food known to man. 

I used to go to dinner with people and joke that I ate like a ten-year-old. But as I have gotten older, I have realized how much being a picky eater has shaped my habits. 

I avoided trying new foods out of fear. Fear of texture, the flavor, and the unknown. I stuck to my core foods because I am terrified of change.

Whether it is moving to a new place, entering a new chapter of life, or even going into a new semester at school, I tend to hold onto what feels safe and familiar. Trying new foods feels a lot like stepping into an unpredictable place. 

On TikTok, one day I came across a video talking about ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). According to NEDA, ARFID is a condition that causes you to limit the amount and variety of foods you eat based on fear and sensory issues rather than body image. 

I heavily relate to the sensory side. Sometimes, the way certain textures or smells appear tends to make me overwhelmed. 

But I am learning that the more time you spend in discomfort, the more comfortable you will feel. Lately, I have been making small efforts to push myself - like saying yes to go to restaurants where nothing on the menu feels appealing. I even tried the butternut squash risotto sample being passed out at Trader Joe's the other day. 

These moments may sound small, but for me, they felt huge. But that is also the point, you do not have to start big when it comes to trying new foods. Start small so it feels less intimidating. 

WebMD suggests easing into new foods in low-pressure situations can make a significant difference. A dinner party might not be the best place to start. Trying foods in this atmosphere is hard for me because the social pressure of being around a bunch of foodies heightens my anxiety.

Instead, they suggest trying foods in a more comfortable setting and pairing new foods with the meals you enjoy.  

I know I am not the only one who struggles with this. So, if you have ever felt stuck in your comfort zone, what is one small step you have taken that pushed you to grow?