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Home › FOOD and RECIPES

Food Views: What’s important?

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by Lindsay Cotter Posted: February 27, 2013

Hi, my name is Lindsay and I am a Nutrition Manager. Really, I am. I just never talk about it much anymore. In fact, I majored in Nutrition in college (sheesh almost 10 years ago!) and then took on a few other nutrition certifications through AASDN post college. I have worked with athletes (ahem…my husband), I have worked with kids, I have worked with you’re average Joe. But recently, I have taken a step back in the Nutrition department, for now at least.

Hmmm. why is that?

First, after going through a series of digestive problems for the past few year, I needed to focus on my own nutrition, not others. Now that I am finally healing and gaining, you’d think I’d be ready to refocus on nutrition. Well for one, I don’t have enough time in the day, especially if I want to continue Healthy Bites and be a sherpa wife (my passion).

custom bites

And two, I’ma little disappointed. Disappointed in the way our society is seeing food.

Fuel and nourishment and enjoyment (think taste buds here) is often overlooked.

Instead we see a focus on calories, and sometimes not even the good kind. Or better yet, the more bang for your buck approach.

I cannot tell you the number of times I open up a magazine or email to read the words “cut calories now, suppress your appetite this way, or get skinny now!”

Where have we gone wrong??

I just finished a devotional about being “Hungry for God, Biblical reflections on Food.” The way God intended food to be viewed and to be used.

You know what that view is?

Food is a gift. Food is how we live, thrive, and fellowship with each other.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to throw away gifts of such value, or degrade it’s purpose. No, I want to be THANKFUL and CHERISH the value of it.

food

Eat to live…. to LOVE…on others.. with others…. breaking bread… saying cheers…

IMG_20120608_111627 IMG_20120617_152835 IMG_20130107_162631 o-matic2

Sure, I still have food intolerances, and I choose not to eat this or that for my overall well being, but the last thing I want food to be is idol. I don’t think we should put our purpose in FOOD. Instead, let’s be purposeful with our FOOD. Using it as fuel, as nourishment, as a way to care or say thank you to others, and to ENJOY!!! Yes ENJOY!

bacon

You see, I am pretty lucky. I married a man who HAS to use food as fuel. Not one day goes by that he really “stresses” over food. He just stays in tune with what his body needs. And thankfully, by God’s provision, those needs are ALWAYS met, whether it be with a home cooked meal I just made or a Cadbury cream egg that snuck it’s way into my grocery basket (whoops).

bike guiness and james

Now, I must go. Dinner is to be made and a glass of wine just might be poured! You better believe I am thankful for that. Winking smile

wine

Do you think we need to change the view of food in our society? What’s your take?

Cheers,

LC

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Categories: FOOD and RECIPES Tags: faith, food for thought, nourishment

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Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

About Lindsay

Hi, y’all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten-Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

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  1. Noelle at Noelle's Notebook

    03/08/2013 at 4:24 PM

    Beautifully written. This is so true… I see so many people I know, especially women, viewing food as the enemy. It’s so sad!
    Having dinner with my husband is probably my favorite part of the day. We take time to prepare our food, and we enjoy it. I can’t imagine being so worried about calories or cutting carbs… it would just ruin the whole experience.
    Thank you for writing this!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/08/2013 at 9:13 PM

      that’s what food is about, sharing love. Perfect Noelle!

      Reply
  2. Danica @ It's Progression

    03/05/2013 at 1:39 PM

    Love this post, Lindsay…and YES, I think our society’s view of food is SO SO sadly skewed, negative, and, well, messed up in many ways. The food industry is pretty scary, and by combining the unknowns in our foods and the problem with obesity and quick weight-loss diet fads–I’d say our society is in a rough place right now when it comes to food. But you’re absolutely right–we can’t make it the focus our of lives, it can’t be an obsession. We have to treat our bodies well and then just live!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/05/2013 at 9:52 PM

      you are so right, our society is in a rough spot, but WE CAN change it, yes?!

      Reply
  3. Deanna

    03/02/2013 at 7:20 AM

    Great post, Lindsay! I also just wrote earlier this week about preparing & approaching meals with love & gratitude, and being confident that what you’re choosing will nourish you! And as you mentioned we cannot skip nourishment for the soul!! We’re on the same wave length!! 🙂

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/02/2013 at 3:13 PM

      yes!! i need to go read yours! i think we share the same heart friend.

      Reply
      • healthyleanfit

        03/02/2013 at 8:16 PM

        It is Day #30, Lindsay, where I talked about that. I agree…xoxo!

        Reply
  4. Brittany @ Delights and Delectables

    03/01/2013 at 5:51 PM

    Yes… one million times yes!! I’m emailing you this weekend if it kills me! lol

    Reply
  5. Meg

    03/01/2013 at 10:15 AM

    Thanks for this post, sweetheart. I really would love to talk to your more about food and nourishment <3

    I loved this post. Totally what I needed to hear on this FIRST day of my IE Challenge 😀

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:09 PM

      you so can! email me anytime. Wish you could come visit!

      Reply
  6. Brittany (Healthy Slice of Life)

    03/01/2013 at 7:11 AM

    Awesome post, lady! I used to do health coaching based on dietary exchanges and/or calories. Though it can work and help a person accomplish a goal, I hated seeing people (including myself in the past) take it to an obsessive/unhealthy place of deprivation and eating crap-filled psuedo foods. Now that I focus on whole foods, I can’t tell you the last time I’ve counted a calorie is. And I’ve never felt better 🙂

    Reply
  7. Lou

    03/01/2013 at 1:07 AM

    So well put, Lindsay – I totally agree – the state of the “food” industry these days is just disgusting…. so much “food” that is on our shelves is not even close to resembling something nourishing. I don’t want to even get started on the diet-industry – ICK.

    Food is such a gift…. something that gives us the ability to flourish and really enjoy life – it’s not something that needs to be manipulated and marketed to us!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 12:55 PM

      well said friend, well said! Misty is lucky to have such a NOURISHING mom!

      Reply
  8. Robyn @thereallife_RD

    02/28/2013 at 8:34 PM

    preach on sista!
    its break my heart to see how much society as totally lost touch with the beauty of food! it’s a way we connect with others, celebrate, and love eachother–and it’s a gift from God! Whenever I begin a weight loss program with patients or do any sort of nutrition counseling I always stress the importance of not losing your love for food-

    and it also kills me to see how much manipulating is done with recipes and ingredients used to make it as “low-calorie” as possible..ahh.

    what a well written post! thank you 🙂

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 7:36 AM

      yes yes, so true. It’s hard to teach clients that calories are not the objective, living is!

      Reply
  9. She Rocks Fitness

    02/28/2013 at 6:53 PM

    Couldn’t agree more…I am so tired of seeing magazines with those titles. It’s annoying, unhealthy, and not sustainable. Food is SO GOOD and we are so lucky in this country to have so much wonderful food to eat. It’s become so complicated and confusing. I always think back to how I ate as a child. Simple, fresh, real food, that my Mom prepared for us every night as a family. I’m grateful for that. We need to go back in time and think “simple” and remember to be grateful and remember to enjoy it and awaken those taste buds. XOXO

    Reply
  10. Erin @ The Elliptical Chronicles

    02/28/2013 at 5:28 PM

    I, too, have a husband who is really good at staying in tune with his “food needs” and I very much try to follow his example. He doesn’t over-think his food choices, and he genuinely enjoys healthy foods, so it all balances out. I have struggled for years (admittedly, still do) with my view of food, and I do think society’s presentation of food has exacerbated those harmful views.

    So, great post on bringing attention to this issue! And thank you for the reminder that food truly is fuel, nourishment, & a way to share our appreciation, love and celebration of those we care about.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:37 PM

      cheers to having great men in our lives! Another reason to celebrate, yes?!

      Reply
  11. Lauren @ Oatmeal after Spinning

    02/28/2013 at 4:33 PM

    Love this!
    And I agree with everything. Food, for me, is a big issue. It has too much control, and I am working on changing that. So much of it is deep-rooted in childhood, which is why I will be SO careful about how I talk about/think of/present food if I ever have children.
    xo

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:02 PM

      i think we all have had or do have those issues, more reason to work through them now too. Well said friend.

      Reply
  12. Jody - Fit at 55

    02/28/2013 at 4:00 PM

    Lindsay, as much as I am non-religious & super liberal, 😉 , I just love your passion for life & the life you want – You really are an amazing lady!!! I want your bites to succeed! I want to help if you need some – I don’t know how but willing to try – maybe you want to guest post for me.. just let me know. You are such a giving lady!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 1:54 PM

      that means more than you will ever know Jody. xxoo

      Reply
  13. Bre

    02/28/2013 at 3:50 PM

    I totally agree with you on this stuff…pet peeve of mine right now too. Although sometimes I’m starting to feel like society is covering up “skinny” by saying “strong” and are covering up “diet” with “healthy eating.” Saying the word skinny now has negative connotations, so we’ve starting using different socially acceptable words (strong, etc) or diets (like gluten free, vegan, paleo etc…) to cover it up. Know what I mean?? Anyway, I digress as I could write a whole post on this!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:05 PM

      friend, i couldn’t agree more! we are hiding.

      Reply
  14. Lisa @ RunWiki

    02/28/2013 at 3:34 PM

    We do need to change! We must change as a country or will kill ourselves. The people must change and demand better foods or the manufacturers will continue to produce all this junk and make mucho profits I might add. They have no reason to stop making the garbage, why should they? many are getting wealthy on our own lack of education, and will to live our best lives. The food companies are not unlike the tobacco companies several years ago. Everyday, I tell my children “eat food that God made, the less man has touched it, the better it is for you.”

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 1:45 PM

      i have one word… AMEN!

      Reply
  15. Lindsey @ Pas de Deux

    02/28/2013 at 3:25 PM

    Thanks for this awesome post, Lindsay!! I’ve actually been thinking a lot about the role (some) food bloggers are playing in helping to redefine our perspective towards food to create a positive food culture – I’d love to talk to you more about all of this!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 1:40 PM

      yes would love to chat more ladies!

      Reply
  16. Kaitlin @4loveofcarrots

    02/28/2013 at 3:02 PM

    This is an excellent post!! I couldn’t agree with you more. I am embarrassed to say that I used to only buy the magazines that said get skinny now or tips to lose weight. They always made me feel inadequate. Now I focus on eating food that will nourish and fuel my body!

    Reply
  17. Alison @ racingtales

    02/28/2013 at 2:51 PM

    Amen to that! I stopped getting Runners World years ago because it seemed to me that every article was about how to lose weight, get skinny, diet all the time, etc. It was depressing. I view food as fuel (and the occasional treat!) and find that I’m happier when I do this. Love the Guinness pic!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:45 PM

      that Guinness picture is for you! teehee

      Reply
      • Alison @ racingtales

        03/01/2013 at 3:52 PM

        I am very flattered! Now hand it over. 😉

        Reply
  18. Brooke

    02/28/2013 at 2:34 PM

    My take is that this post is amazing, you took the words out of my mouth. And I love you!!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:12 PM

      and i love YOU!

      Reply
  19. Kristin @ My Mission Impossible

    02/28/2013 at 2:31 PM

    Thanks for the food for thought 🙂

    Reply
  20. Rachelle

    02/28/2013 at 2:25 PM

    Thank you for this post. You are an amazing advocate and example of healthy living and appreciate you putting this out there. Food is fuel, food is what brings us together, food should make us happy and not control us. I hope you enjoyed your dinner & wine. Cheers!

    Reply
  21. Sarah @ Fit Betty

    02/28/2013 at 2:16 PM

    Great post! I have food intolerances and my kids have severe food allergies and it is hard not to become obsessed with food. I struggle with deprivation a lot because of my allergies, but I know that finding a good place of balance and moderation is worth the fight so I can pass a healthy view of food to my kids 🙂

    Reply
  22. Amanda @RunToTheFinish

    02/28/2013 at 1:51 PM

    I adore you in so many ways it’s really starting to border on stalking 🙂 I kid, but seriously amazing post!! I am in the process of updating my gear page and wellllll of course healthy bites had to be on there http://www.runtothefinish.com/p/my-gear.html

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/28/2013 at 2:18 PM

      oh you are too good to me! Love it! thank you amanda!

      Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/28/2013 at 2:19 PM

      oh you are too good to me amanda! thank YOU! love it and LOVE YOU!

      Reply
  23. Jen@HealthyFoodandFamily

    02/28/2013 at 1:33 PM

    Excellent, thought provoking post as always! I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. Last May I did a little experiment and managed to lose 20 lbs in about 6 weeks by viewing food just as it is…food. I stopped looking at food as good or bad and just stopped obsessing about it. Recently (well, November) I hit a weight plateau and thought if I started counting calories, measuring/weighing foods and tracking everything that I would bust through it. Turns out, I’m miserable. I hate wanting to know every calorie and obsessing yet again about trying to get the most food for the fewest calories. I took a leap of faith a few days ago and deleted all of my “tracking apps” off my phone. I already feel freer and less obsessive and able to enjoy my meals again is a huge relief!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:41 PM

      way to go jen! delete feels good!

      Reply
  24. jobo

    02/28/2013 at 1:08 PM

    I read this as I so lovingly ate my latest ‘do lunch differently’ salad o goodness and it truly made me enjoy it *that* much more, because not only was it full of fuel and nutrients, it was ridiculously TASTY. This post humbled me a bit at the same time, as I have wavered on seeing food as what it is in the simplest sense: a calorie. When it goes FAR beyond that. While logging food has helped me grow into mindful eating, and intuitiveness, it is not the be-all and end-all, either. What is is what you say here: food is meant to be enjoyed, just as much as it is meant to fuel us. We should be grateful for having such wonderful foods at our fingertips, and enjoy it with those in our company whenever we are eating. Enjoyed as part of the experience together. XO! Thank you for this!!

    Reply
  25. Kath (My Funny Little Life)

    02/28/2013 at 1:03 PM

    I love your perspective on food, Lindsay! My relationship with it has been very bad for many years, and didn’t improve until I finally started to see food as nourishment allowing me to do the things that really matter to me – being there for the people I love, making music, studiying and learning and widening my horizon. I need to be healthy and have energy to do that, and it comes from food (an important of it at least). The old patterns are still active in my mind, but I’m working on the new ones to take over. 🙂

    Happy happy happy to hear you’re getting better and feeling healthier!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:40 PM

      thank you friend. I always love your perspective

      Reply
  26. Sara @ Nourish and Flourish

    02/28/2013 at 1:02 PM

    Beautiful and truthful post, Linds! I think our society has idolized AND demonized food, which has created a very damaging relationship for most of us. The simultaneous lust and fear results in gluttony and restriction, both of which are so harmful to our emotional and physical health! God intended for food to fuel and nourish us, and, just as importantly, to bring us together. After years of idolizing and demonizing food, I’m re-learning how to celebrate it for what it is. For me that means enjoying meals with others, forgetting about numbers, and listening to my body. 🙂 xoxo

    Reply
  27. Adri {Food-N-Thought}

    02/28/2013 at 12:54 PM

    I really believe that more important than having a “healthy diet” is having a “healthy relationship with food”… Knowing your likes and dislikes, your body’s limitations and goals, what’s good for you and what’s not. Food should never be seen as the enemy, we are our own worst enemies and so is on us that we need to work on in order to get it right with food 😉
    “Bacon is like a hug from God” might just be my new life motto.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:36 PM

      so true! wish we could be friends versus enemies. Let’s all work on that! and Bacon is a BIG HUG from GOD! AMEN

      Reply
  28. Coco

    02/28/2013 at 12:49 PM

    Absolutely- I agree 100%. For all of my teenage years and early 20’s I saw food as such an evil thing- and I allowed it to have this hold over me. I never allowed myself to enjoy the things I loved- unless I “slipped up” and ate 15 servings in 5 minutes- and then felt guilty. Hah. These days I’ve let go of all those stupid ideas and guilt- and let food be awesome, simple and delicious. It is so much better this way 😉 I’m so glad that your digestive issues are better! And cheers to wine!

    Reply
  29. Sarah @ The Smart Kitchen

    02/28/2013 at 12:26 PM

    Having just accepted, admitted, and committed to ending my secret addiction to calorie counting, I can fully relate to this post. Somewhere along the way my joy in the sheer taste of food got lost in a numbers game, and with that joy went a lot of the pleasure I got from shared meals with family and friends, and also exercise–which also became about numbers.

    I, too, hate the words I often see on magazine covers (that I admit I do enjoy reading) and I find it fantastically interesting to read about how other cultures view food…it seems to me that when LESS emphasis is placed on nutrients, calories, etc. there are also LESS problems with health issues. Not sure how to ‘fix’ this.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:34 PM

      you are so right friend, it’s about the culture. I am always reminded of anthony bourdain when i say that. I swear you two are related. LOL

      Reply
  30. Kanoelani

    02/28/2013 at 11:54 AM

    I love this & you for this smart & honest post! It is definitely true the way our society views food is sad to say the least. I thank God my views on food has changed b/c it has definitely made me appreciate what God has given me more and be thankful for having it.

    Reply
  31. Missy

    02/28/2013 at 10:49 AM

    Yes, yes, and yes.
    In other words we — as a society should change our view on food in MANY levels.
    The surface (focusing on quality, real food etc.).
    The purpose (nourishment, a gift of pleasure received with appreciation and not guilt! — not a drug, not a vice, not a reward or punishment)
    and
    The place (No idolatry. It’s just FOOD.)

    Matt 6: 25-30
    Here is the bottom line: do not worry about your life. Don’t worry about what you will eat or what you will drink. Don’t worry about how you clothe your body. Living is about more than merely eating, and the body is about more than dressing up. 26 Look at the birds in the sky. They do not store food for winter. They don’t plant gardens. They do not sow or reap—and yet, they are always fed because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are even more precious to Him than a beautiful bird.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:31 PM

      best verse ever! now we just need to engrave it in our heads!!!

      Reply
  32. beka @ rebecca roams

    02/28/2013 at 10:32 AM

    I agree! I EAT and I eat A LOT. I don’t focus on the numbers anymore. I found it to be stressful and I would always end up crashing and eating something over sugary, fatty, etc and feel guilty for days over it. Horrible way to live!
    I think giving the numbers a little bit of a focus when you first begin in a weight loss journey is part of learning what your body needs. i can’t calorie count. I tried – it just doesn’t happen. Instead, I just listen to what my body says it wants. Over time, feeding it properly has replaced those cravings for candy with cravings for greens, healthy fish fats, etc. Surprising, but it really does take care of itself when we allow it to!

    Reply
  33. Courtney @ Sweet Tooth, Sweet Life

    02/28/2013 at 10:08 AM

    GREAT, great post! I, too, have noticed my own thoughts shifting with food and how it’s viewed in our society. I find myself getting incredible frustrated with all of the magazines these days that tend to focus solely on the same things you mentioned. Ever since this past summer, when I had to change my whole outlook on food, I’ve really had a bit of an eye-opening experience. And it’s quite refreshing!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:39 PM

      and what a great outlook it is friend! i bet you finally feel ALIVE! CHeers!

      Reply
  34. Chels R.

    02/28/2013 at 9:40 AM

    Well said! And yes, there IS always time for a glass of wine! Esp while cooking haha!

    Reply
  35. Jess

    02/28/2013 at 9:22 AM

    I LOVE your views on food and honestly? I could totally channel your views a wee bit more in my own relationship with food. It’s a much healthier and happier relationship than it’s ever been, but I do admit that I sometimes focus on calories…and not in an obsessive way (I don’t think) but in a way that has allowed me to both lose some extra weight and maintain that loss. At this point, I’m in full on maintenance mode and could totally trust my body more to know what it needs — and USUALLY I’m good with that. There are times though, where that trust is lacking, and that’s something I need to work on. Food is a beautiful thing, it’s nourishing, it’s uniting and its DELISH. I love food, I’m a huge fan, I just need to let go a little bit of the calorie thing. Beautiful reminder. Love you!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:30 PM

      trusting is always in the works friend, yes? Love YOU TOO!

      Reply
  36. amanda

    02/28/2013 at 9:10 AM

    I have nothing else to add that has not already been touched on, but I will say a hearty AMEN! I really hope this post can open some eyes and hearts. We can get so caught up in diets, fads, calories that the bigger picture often gets lost.

    Reply
  37. Jana @ Happy Wife Healthy Life

    02/28/2013 at 8:30 AM

    I loved this post so much! What a great reminder to all of us about using food as nourishment, and not focusing our lives around it. So glad I found your blog!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:29 PM

      so glad we found each other jana!

      Reply
  38. Tiff @ Love Sweat and Beers

    02/28/2013 at 8:28 AM

    Such a great post my friend. You hit the nail on the head with this one. I’m glad that you and the hubs have such a healthy relationship with food. 🙂

    Reply
  39. Heather (Where's the Beach)

    02/28/2013 at 8:26 AM

    Girl – I feel like I could go on a big rant on this one. Just yesterday I heard a comment on the radio that just sort of blew me away – yet I realize it’s such a common thought. Kids can eat junk and candy basically b/c the premise is they don’t have to worry about it so much. HUH???? Really? that’s what we need to teach children? I have a niece who’s parents I’ve overheard say that she should eat that crap while she can b/c when she gets older she can’t. Hold up. Stop everyone.

    Reply
  40. The Candid RD

    02/28/2013 at 7:46 AM

    Wonderful post, Lindsay. And just in time for National Nutrition Month! Do you get the ADA Journal? I’m posting about the position paper they wrote last month, about how we need to take our focus away from single nutrients (and calories) and focus on the bigger picture. It’s a great article, really. People need to stop viewing food in a negative light, and being afraid of it. It’s supposed to cause joy and positive emotion, not negative! And a cadbury egg ended up in my basket last week too 😉 I love those things.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:23 PM

      no, i need to read this article! can you send it to me?

      Reply
  41. Miz

    02/28/2013 at 7:44 AM

    you KNOW I AGREE.
    you so wise so young…

    Reply
  42. Nelly

    02/28/2013 at 7:16 AM

    I am a nutrition specialist through AASDN TOO! I always tell my clients the same thing FOOD IS FOR FUEL. Do not abuse it by counting calories…focus on what you NEED for nutrition not on numbers 🙂 Great post!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/28/2013 at 2:12 PM

      oh hooray for fellow nutrition specialist! Love that! and love that we share the same perspective! KEEP IT UP! <3

      Reply
  43. Allison @ Life's a Bowl

    02/28/2013 at 6:52 AM

    Well said – I definitely agree! I get so annoyed with all of these diet trends that are popping up, they’re especially prevalent after the New Year. The latest thing I heard was eating whatever you want for 5 days and then fasting for 2 days – that’s REDIC! And I think it goes beyond the diet trend, as you said, food is fuel and should be treated like such… Not an enemy!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:39 PM

      i think thats why i am not a fan of new years. argh

      Reply
  44. Chuck

    02/28/2013 at 2:15 AM

    My focus lately has been just giving it to God and letting plan live out in me. I completely agree with everything you said and I am totally working on my relationship with food. Thanks for keeping me grounded Lindsay!

    And of Cadbury Cream Eggs.. : )

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/28/2013 at 2:16 PM

      that’s the best focus! God will provide, it’s just hard letting go of that control sometimes, yes? xxoo

      Reply
  45. Addy @ Six-Kick Switch

    02/28/2013 at 12:50 AM

    Love, love, love! What you say is so true, Lindsay. Eat what is healthy, eat what is whole, and get on with your life!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:38 PM

      amen, get on and live!

      Reply
  46. Christine @ Love, Life, Surf

    02/28/2013 at 12:37 AM

    Love this post Lindsay and yes! Food is to be enjoyed. It nourishes out body and soul. So full of family history and culture too. It drives me crazy when food is reduced to just nutrients in an equation vs. a whole food approach.

    Reply
  47. Lisa

    02/27/2013 at 11:56 PM

    Oh my gosh, I love everything about this post!
    Just awesome. This is something I’ve definitely struggled with in the past, and honestly still contemplate. When I hear certain things I still get slightly intrigued and then I realize where that path could lead me and know that’s not good. I spent far too long completely obsessed with food, that I neglected family, friends, school, and work. That’s not right! I mean I love food, but not more than my life.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:18 PM

      i think we all get intrigued. It’s good advertising, unfortunately

      Reply
  48. Katie @ Talk Less, Say More

    02/27/2013 at 10:54 PM

    I really struggle with this. I have learned that food is fuel and that I can’t just focus on the “numbers” BUT I struggle with watching the world and their reaction to food. I’ve come to the point that I understand “all things in moderation” but struggle with those who don’t. Maybe that makes me a bad person but I want people to ENJOY their food while staying healthy.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:29 PM

      oh i know, it’s hard to sit back and watch. Youre not a bad person at all friend. You just care

      Reply
  49. Holly KN

    02/27/2013 at 10:51 PM

    Amen. Yes. Yes. YES. We definitely need a change in perspective – I don’t even KNOW how/where to start.

    I think moderation would be one good place. Then, food that actually looks like food. Maybe some respect – for ourselves, for our food, and for the nourishment it provides. And how about acknowledgment that the preparation of good food takes time, money, and energy – but what is more worth it than what we put into our bodies?

    Like I said, I really don’t know where to start – except with me, and my family, and our attempts to do it as best as we can…

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      03/01/2013 at 2:23 PM

      you are so right! it’s about respect!

      Reply
  50. Coco

    02/27/2013 at 10:27 PM

    What a great post! I agree and have little patience for those magazines anymore, but it is sad that so many people still live that way.

    Reply
  51. Purelymichelle

    02/27/2013 at 9:35 PM

    awesome girl!! so true. Lori and I get emails all the time from girls asking how many calories they should be eating, etc. I know it can take time for some to see food as fuel, not the enemy. So lets pray that people start seeing food as fuel and nourishment!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:52 PM

      yes, and i’m so glad they email you. You two have the perfect journey, one where you are using fuel to heal, to nourish, to LIVE. Love you both! thank YOU

      Reply
  52. Sarena (The Non-Dairy Queen)

    02/27/2013 at 9:32 PM

    Yes! All of this YES! I think our society, to some extent, is afraid of food. I’ve met so many women recently through training that don’t get nearly enough nutrients. I started doing all of Tony’s food and he realized that he wasn’t eating enough! I knew this, but it took him seeing a physical change in his body after fueling it properly in order for him to see it. I think food is such an amazing thing to share with family, friends and loved ones. The goal should be to fuel your body for nourishment and to make you feel good! I’m so glad you’re feeling better.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:52 PM

      so so true! and I’ve been there. That fear. It holds you back from truly thriving! I’m so glad Tony has you. Blessed man he is! and vice versa

      Reply
  53. Amanda @ .running with spoons.

    02/27/2013 at 9:23 PM

    Amen. I spent way too many years of my life placing food on a pedestal and treating it like the be all, end all. It got to the point where nothing in my life was more important than food and all the numbers that went along with it. Enough was enough. I still love food, but mostly because it let’s me engage with all the other things I love. Well, that and it just tastes plain good 🙂

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:47 PM

      it sure does! Food is a way to engage in so much more… like coffee dates. hehe

      Reply
  54. lindsay@fuelmyfamily

    02/27/2013 at 9:10 PM

    I totally agree! Food is fuel and i think it should be seen that way on a daily basis. But that doesnt mean you shouldnt enjoy it in social situations and eat “special treats” guilt free. Having 2 little girls to raise I worry about portraying food in the right light. Given my 4 year old was being a little “stinker” at dinner and ate every bite of broccoli off my husbands plate when he went to the bathroom before he got a single piece, I’d say we’re doing ok for now! I just hope and pray she makes good food choices when its her turn to really decide and I’m not deciding what to cook for them. Its crazy how at the same time, our country has huge obesiety and underweight/anarexia issues! All about balance!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:46 PM

      well you raised them right. I think your kids are truly blessed to have a mom like YOU!

      Reply
  55. Haley @ fullnfit

    02/27/2013 at 9:00 PM

    I could not agree more with you. The views on food are horrible. The main focus, it seems, is how “bad” it is for you and to “slash calories today” to lose weight. We need to look more at the benefits of food.. The largest benefit is LIFE. Food gives us life and health and more importantly, ENJOYMENT. I remind myself of this EVERYDAY because there is too much garbage out there about restricting…

    I’m right there with ya, girl. FOOD IS FABULOUSLY DELICIOUS!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:46 PM

      i love what you said, yes LIFE! Food gives us LIFE!

      Reply
  56. Melissa @ Treats With a Twist

    02/27/2013 at 8:43 PM

    Loved this. I’ve been thinking about it a lot lately. I get really stuck in the numbers…which means I need to focus more on my other hobbies and remember that I love and enjoy food. I’m a cook and a baker! I shouldn’t be afraid of my food. So silly yet so real.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:44 PM

      yes, so true melissa. I think we can easily get sucked in at times. But as long as we are aware and take time to refocus on what it is about, yes?!

      Reply
      • Melissa @ Treats With a Twist

        02/27/2013 at 9:59 PM

        Absolutely. Sometimes my fiance quickly checks me and reminds me to enjoy the things I love or else it’s not worth all the hard work. It’s good to have those little reminders 🙂

        Reply
        • LCCotter

          03/01/2013 at 2:45 PM

          good man!

          Reply
  57. Brittany @ GOtheXtraMile

    02/27/2013 at 8:40 PM

    LOVE!!! Amazing post <3

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:43 PM

      thank you friend. that means a lot!

      Reply
  58. Michelle @ Eat Move Balance

    02/27/2013 at 8:30 PM

    Great post, Lindsay! Food is so embedded in our traditions, cultures, religions and every-day socializing. It’s meant to be nourishing AND enjoyed! Cheers!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:43 PM

      yes, cheers! less stress more ENJOYMENT!

      Reply
  59. Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table

    02/27/2013 at 8:14 PM

    I love food. I refuse to look at it as a number, even though I have to follow a competition diet. What’s the point in eating of it isy enjoyable?!

    And you just convinced me to have a glass of wine tonight. I’m low on carbs anyway. Lol!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:42 PM

      well drink up! Grapes are GOOD! tee hee

      Reply
  60. Malita

    02/27/2013 at 8:04 PM

    Agree. I think store bought and fast food has kind of ruined us, we have a perspective of food that centers around the end result, not the process or where the food even came from. And in the health community many hyper focus on macro, micro, no carb, carb load, once again focusing on the end result and sucking the joy out of it. The other day I saw a blogger go off about milk for the umpteenth time, one point he made against milk was it is highly processed. Meanwhile he constantly promotes protein powders and discusses how he starts his day with black coffee and BCAAs. Highly processed?? And BCAAs for breakfast, mmmm yummy!! Enjoy that for the rest of your life! Like I said, all about the end result.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:40 PM

      So true malita! I’m not sure when we started to over complicate food, but we did. Sad.

      Reply
    • Holly KN

      02/27/2013 at 10:44 PM

      This reminds me of a sign I see in the “Amino Bar” outside the gym: “Babies drink milk. Real men drink protein.”

      I swear my blood pressure goes up every time I see it.

      Reply
      • Malita

        02/27/2013 at 11:21 PM

        That is hysterical, you shouldn’t get mad you should just laugh and laugh at how stupid that statement is, guess the genius behind it didn’t realize protein is in milk. Also, real men don’t take advice from a poster at an “amino bar” 😉

        Reply
        • Holly KN

          02/27/2013 at 11:25 PM

          ^ True that. I’ll practice laughing today. Thanks for the perspective. 🙂

          Reply
  61. Kristina

    02/27/2013 at 7:50 PM

    I am disappointed too, Lindsay. I am sad as well – I see too many people with an unhealthy view of food and too much restriction. Among bloggers, there is a common thing many share, and that is intolerance. We connect in this way, and for me it is a positive thing when I find ways around those intolerances and can share food and recipes with others.

    Food can definitely be enjoyable and amazing and even fir the description of “comfort” AND still be fuel, still be healthy. Food is not to be feared, should not translate to a person’s self worth or confidence (what I assume people are cutting calories for, and using food as something to have control over).

    Food can be celebrated, bright and vibrant colors and flavors! I am grateful for it too! (I bought Jason a cadbury egg yesterday…) 😉

    enjoy your dinner and the WINE

    Reply
    • Kristina

      02/27/2013 at 7:51 PM

      um, fir = FIT

      Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 7:57 PM

      i almost referenced you in this post! about making food with love and enjoyment and NOURISHMENT! Love YOU!

      Reply
      • Kristina

        02/27/2013 at 8:12 PM

        well GOSH. that makes me smile big. XXO

        Reply
        • LCCotter

          02/27/2013 at 9:42 PM

          well it’s true. Love YOU!

          Reply
  62. Heather

    02/27/2013 at 7:48 PM

    I LOVE THIS.

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:29 PM

      and i LOVE YOU! always. thank YOU!

      Reply
  63. Ashley @ My Food 'N' Fitness Diaries

    02/27/2013 at 7:45 PM

    Excellent post, Linds! I couldn’t agree more my friend. I love and admire your mentality toward food. Thank you for being such a great example of what food should be all about!

    Reply
    • LCCotter

      02/27/2013 at 9:28 PM

      no thank YOU! You’ve been sharing the way your fuel for your baby and it’s inspiring!

      Reply
      • Elizabeth @ My Neon Running Shoes

        02/28/2013 at 8:00 AM

        I agree this is such a wonderful and inspiring post! It’s so east to forget to be grateful for all that we are blessed with! This week I have been doing a few review posts on the book Nourishing Wisdom by Marc David. The book is life changing.I definitely want to check out this devotional 🙂

        Reply

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