If I could eat healthier and exercise more, I fucking would
An autistic rant about health/wellness advice
I am so sick and fucking tired of these health experts telling me to just exercise and eat healthier. I know. I am aware. Don’t you think that if it was accessible to me that I would fucking do it? I am not the poor ignorant lamb desperately in need of a wise shepherd to lead me to greener, safer pastures. I know Americans are eating ourselves to death. I know the food I eat is processed. I know I don’t exercise enough. I fucking know.
In fact I know all about macro and micro nutrients and what a balanced meal looks like and complete proteins versus incomplete and the important of eating organic because it has the most nutrients and on and on and on.
And I know that movement is essential to live. I even know multiple different ways to structure workouts for different outcomes. Muscle gain, cardio training, targeting specific muscle groups, warm ups and cool downs. I know ways to incorporate movement into my day that aren’t just going to the gym. I know there are all kinds of classes for every kind of workout or activity I can imagine. I know all of it.
My problem is not ignorance and I’m so fucking sick of so much of the current popular health rhetoric acting like we’re all just too stupid to understand. Yes, information suppression about food and exercise is a huge problem.
And also.
Can we stop acting like these are individual choices?
I cannot Girlboss my way out of this shit.
I have sensory issues, dietary restrictions, specific textural and taste needs, a highly dopamine-driven brain, and poor executive functioning without medication or other extreme intervention.
I cannot simply just start eating grilled chicken salads and chia pudding. I eat what I eat because it’s accessible to me. Because I can get it down my throat without gagging or crying. Because it’s the only consistently appetizing thing. Because it’s safe and predictable.
I’m tired of this nihilistic, individualist ass approach. I’m tired of every health expert telling me that I’m killing myself with what I eat. I might as well just beat them to the punch and off myself now because apparently non-dairy milk is too processed too but I’m fucking lactose intolerant and cannot stand the taste/smell of dairy.
Like what is the fucking point of living if the only way that’s successful for me right now with my disabilities is apparently super evil and bad? What is the fucking point of trying if most of the “good foods” are repulsive to me?
We are in eating disorder territory.
I am so tired of this black and white all or nothing rhetoric. You know what’s worse than eating processed food? Not eating at all! Or eating very little and then purging because of the guilt you feel about the horrible evil bad food you DID manage to choke down!
I know most of these books and workshops and Ted talks aren’t written with disability in mind and you’re supposed to take the information with a grain of salt but 1) autistic black and white thinking makes that extremely hard to do in practice 2) the language used plus adhd rejection sensitive dysphoria makes it so I feel like I’M wrong and bad and evil for living like this and 3) it’s just so tiring to never be considered in health spaces and for all these gurus to make broad sweeping statements that isolate and shame disabled people
Just like every other part of the disabled experience I have just about fucking had it with people telling me things, assuming I’m not disabled or assuming that I can automatically filter it through my disability brain to understand how it applies to me. Give me information for better health that is accessible to me!!! Without shaming me for things I cannot fucking control because I have all these developmental disorders!!! And OBVIOUSLY this is exponentially more difficult for people with chronic physical illnesses and higher support needs who have even more restrictions than me. If you have a feeding tube, I really doubt that grass-fed free range meat is accessible for you. There’s just a certain point where constant “awareness” about an issue just becomes harmful because I can do fuck all about it. Yes I have a certain amount of agency and power but girl it’s a disability for a reason and I can’t just personal choice feminism my way out of it. Every time I see this health stuff I’m reminded of my limitations and how egregiously unhealthy I am and how I’m gonna end up in an early grave and all this and that and how I just have to CHOOSE to live healthier. As if I have all that many choices here. I am already grabbing life by the horns but this metaphorical bull wants me dead.
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Harnessing the Power of Calcium: Exploring Its Benefits and Plant-Based Sources
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. While many associate calcium with dairy products, there are numerous plant-based sources that provide this crucial nutrient. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits of calcium for the human body and explore some of the best plant-based sources to incorporate into your diet.
The Importance of Calcium:
Calcium is widely recognized for its role in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. However, its benefits extend far beyond skeletal health. Calcium is also involved in muscle contractions, nerve function, blood clotting, and the regulation of enzyme activity. It is particularly crucial during childhood and adolescence when bones are growing, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Additionally, adequate calcium intake throughout life may reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones. Furthermore, research suggests that calcium may play a role in managing blood pressure and reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.
Plant-Based Sources of Calcium:
For individuals who follow a plant-based or dairy-free diet, it's important to be aware of alternative sources of calcium. Here are some of the best plant-based sources to consider:
1. Leafy Greens:
Dark, leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, turnip greens, and spinach are excellent sources of calcium. These nutrient-packed vegetables not only offer calcium but also provide other essential vitamins and minerals.
2. Almonds:
Almonds are a versatile and nutritious snack that contains a considerable amount of calcium. Additionally, they offer healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a valuable addition to your diet.
3. Sesame Seeds:
Sesame seeds, commonly used in various cuisines, are a rich source of calcium. They can be sprinkled on salads, added to baked goods, or used in homemade granola for an extra calcium boost.
4. Tofu and Tempeh:
Tofu and tempeh, both derived from soybeans, are excellent plant-based sources of calcium. These versatile protein sources are widely used in vegetarian and vegan cooking and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes.
5. Fortified Plant-Based Milk Alternatives:
Many plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk, are fortified with calcium to provide a comparable amount to dairy milk. Be sure to check the labels to ensure adequate calcium content.
6. Chia Seeds:
Chia seeds not only provide calcium but are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. They can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or used as a topping for yogurt or salads.
7. Beans and Lentils:
Beans and lentils, including chickpeas, black beans, and lentils, are not only excellent sources of protein and fiber but also contain notable amounts of calcium. They can be incorporated into soups, stews, salads, or even used as a base for veggie burgers.
Calcium is an essential mineral that contributes to numerous functions within the human body. While dairy products are often associated with calcium, there are plenty of plant-based sources that can provide this vital nutrient. By incorporating leafy greens, almonds, sesame seeds, tofu, fortified plant-based milk alternatives, chia seeds, beans, and lentils into your diet, you can ensure an adequate calcium intake while enjoying a diverse and nutritious plant-based lifestyle. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance on meeting your calcium needs and maintaining optimal health.
For more detailed and comprehensive information, I recommend referring to reputable sources such as:
National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Office of Dietary Supplements:
Website: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-Consumer/
Mayo Clinic:
Website: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-calcium/art-20363792
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health:
Nutrition Source - Calcium: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/calcium/
Vegetarian Resource Group:
Calcium in the Vegan Diet: https://www.vrg.org/nutrition/calcium.php
These sources provide evidence-based information on calcium, its importance in the human body, and plant-based sources of calcium.
Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice regarding your specific dietary needs and health concerns.
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High-Protein Diets and Bone Health: A Deep Dive into the Science
In the realm of nutrition and fitness, high-protein diets reign supreme. Praised for their muscle-building prowess, appetite-suppressing effects, and potential for fat loss, they’ve become a go-to for athletes, bodybuilders, and health-conscious individuals alike. But amidst the protein frenzy, a whisper of concern persists: Could these diets be compromising our bone health?
It’s a question that…
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