Food ‘police’

Be careful of what you eat and drink, ‘Food police’ are keeping an eye on you. ‘Food police’ are folks who make it their business to keep a check on what others eat and drink and get nasty about the same.

This judgmental behaviour is because women are seen in conjunction with a certain body image. This makes people comment on what they feel is right and what doesn’t agree with their own style of eating. Such shaming can also get snarky . ‘It’s clearly bullying in the guise of advice,’ says clinical psychologist Dr Varkha Chulani, adding, ‘It takes place between anyone – friends, colleagues at the office, a husband-wife and most often and dangerous, between a mother and child. In fact, such parent-child constant criticism and control of food can even lead to a child being anorexic,’ she says.

The reasons for shaming are envy and a self-imposed sense of righteousness. ‘Often, those fighting their own food battles feel jealous of what others are eating and project onto them what they can or cannot do. They also suffer from a sense of righteousness. Of course, food police may be beneficial in some cases like for pop star Madonna, who needs a check on what she shouldn’t overeat, but overall I think one should live and let live,’ Dr. Chulani adds.

Pop star Madonna has recently hired ‘food police’ to keep a check on her diet. The 56-year-old singer said that she has her ‘food police’ that deals with her nutrition to make sure she is in top form before her tour.

Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.