Mindful eating. Source: Ba Tik on pexels.com
As Nutrition Month continues through March, there is growing awareness across Canada about the connection between mental health and how people eat and experts say that shift is a positive step forward.
While the Canadian Mental Health Association estimates more than 1.7 million Canadians will experience an eating disorder, many more face challenges like stress eating, food guilt or restrictive habits. Increasingly, however, conversations around mental health are helping people better understand those patterns and seek support earlier.
Psychologist Sandra Primiano says stress, anxiety and burnout can play a major role in shaping eating habits.
She also notes that diet culture and pressure to eat “perfectly” can create cycles that negatively impact a person’s relationship with food.
At the same time, health professionals say more people are beginning to recognize that mental health, self-image and eating habits are closely connected and that awareness is helping shift the conversation.
Experts say the growing focus on balance, self-compassion and early support is encouraging, particularly as more Canadians look for sustainable, long-term approaches to health.
They add that building a positive relationship with food rather than striving for perfection can make a meaningful difference in both mental and physical well-being.
(Written by: Alyssa Brush)
