Summary

Dylan shares his experience of struggling with body image and his relationship with food. He discusses how he avoided certain activities and social situations because of his body and how he felt the need to conform to societal ideals of masculinity. Dylan also talks about his evolving relationship with food, from feeling guilty about eating fast food to using it as a coping mechanism. He eventually developed binge eating disorder, but it took several years for him to recognize it and seek help. Dylan highlights the misconception that losing weight is the solution to his eating disorder and the harmful effects of using appetite suppressants as a treatment. In this conversation, He shares his journey of recovery from an eating disorder and body dissatisfaction. He discusses the challenges he faced in addressing his eating disorder and the pressure to pursue weight loss. Dylan highlights the importance of finding support and being challenged in his beliefs. He emphasizes the ongoing nature of body image work and the need to be patient with oneself. Dylan also shares his interests in poetry, movies, and bird-watching as sources of inspiration and joy.

Keywords

body image, relationship with food, masculinity, coping mechanism, binge eating disorder, treatment, eating disorder, recovery, body dissatisfaction, poetry, movies, bird watching

Takeaways

• Many individuals struggle with body image and avoid certain activities or social situations because of their bodies.
• Societal ideals of masculinity can also contribute to body image issues and the pressure to conform.
• Food can become a coping mechanism, especially in times of stress or emotional turmoil.
• Recognizing and seeking help for an eating disorder can take time, and there may be resistance or denial at first.
• Treating binge eating disorder with weight loss or appetite suppressants is not effective and can be harmful. Addressing body dissatisfaction and eating disorders requires support and challenging one's beliefs.
• Recovery from an eating disorder is an ongoing process that requires patience and self-compassion.
• Finding joy and inspiration in hobbies and interests can contribute to a positive body image.
• It is important to separate one's true thoughts from the thoughts influenced by the eating disorder.
• Accepting and appreciating one's body as it is can lead to a healthier relationship with oneself and others.

Links:

• Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude - Ross Gay and Bon Iver (Spotify)
• Interstellar 
• Follow Aaron Flores on IG: @AaronFloresRDN
• Body Image Coaching for Men
• Learn more about Within Health