A Children's Book for Dieting

I am amazed that there are so many people out there that still think it is okay to make girls be healthy and fit by scaring them into how they should be. And how they should be to these people, is often not what any body should be.  I struggled with self- image and self-acceptance most of my life.  From being bullied in junior high, to becoming way too thin on an unhealthy vegan diet in high school and all the in betweens in my 20s.  It has taken my to my 30s to realize that as long as I am healthy, active and feel well, I am okay.

Now I can't post all the blame to society or peers for my past self-image difficulties, but I do not see how anyone can deny that outside sources play a part in how we as a society view girls and women.  I know a hell of a lot of "thin" girls that are unhealthy because they consume sodas, processed foods and rarely exercise, but are able based on their make up to appear thin.  But their organs are not happy on the inside.  Why does it have to be about dieting and being thin? Why is the focus not on being HEALTHY and ACTIVE.  These are the keys to longevity and happiness.

I rant a little because I recently read about Maggie Goes on a Diet and it infuriated me.  I really hate the word diet- it should be Maggie changes her lifestyle, or anything else less demeaning.  I found out about this book from Kathy of Happy Healthy Life who also posts at Family Kitchen.  I agree with her sentiments.  Why does the focus when communicating to young girls have to be focused on their size?  Young girls are so incredibly sensitive to all feedback they receive.  While at that developmental stage they are trying to assert their independence, they are also still craving the loving support and attention they had as little girls. 

The focus for any child and any adult is that we want to eat well and live well.  All this means is eating lots of whole and fresh foods and staying physically active, as well as finding a source to care for your self mentally and spiritually.  It is not that hard.  And if all girls were taught the strengths of these behaviors- we may not all be a thin magazine image but we will all be healthy on the inside and out.

Rant completed.