Food has a special place in my heart. It’s a way to connect with others, explore new cultures, and find comfort. But it hasn’t always been that way. For years, food was a source of stress, self-judgment, and even fear for me as I struggled with an eating disorder that warped my relationship with it. Learning to see food as fuel and pleasure rather than something to control or restrict was one of the most challenging journeys I’ve ever been on.
Eating disorders are complicated. They can make something as simple as a meal a battleground of thoughts and emotions. For a long time, I felt like food had power over me – a power that was both addictive and overwhelming. Every meal, every bite, felt loaded with self-critique. The disorder made food choices feel like judgments of my worth, my body, and my self-control all wrapped up into one. It was exhausting and isolating, taking a toll on my physical and mental well-being.
Through therapy, support from loved ones, and a lot of inner work, I began to rebuild a healthier relationship with food. I learned that food isn’t the enemy; the struggle is within. It changed how I saw foo, challenging many beliefs that weren’t serving me. I had to start seeing meals as nourishment for my body, something to help me thrive and enjoy life, rather than something to restrict or earn.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of recovery was realizing just how complex food is for many people. While food can bring people together, it can also be deeply personal and painful for those dealing with eating disorders or body image issues. Our culture often treats food as a reward, a punishment, or a way to gauge control. Breaking free from that mindset is liberating, but it’s a journey that requires compassion and patience.
Today, I see food as something to celebrate, not control. I can finally go out with friends and enjoy a meal without guilt or anxiety. I’m now in a place where food is about joy, health, and exploration, which I cherish deeply. Writing about food now feels like a victory, something I wouldn’t have thought possible during my most challenging days.
Know that healing is possible for anyone struggling with their relationship with food. It takes time and support, but with self-compassion and understanding, you can rebuild a healthy relationship with food and yourself. My journey hasn’t been perfect, but I’m grateful every day to enjoy meals again, with a heart full of love for food, my body, and the experiences they bring.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, there are various hotlines or resources to gain help. Contact a friend or visit the links below because you are not alone.
Call (800) 931-2237 or text “NEDA” to 741741 for immediate support.
Luisa LoFranco 
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