Issued Quarterly

March 2004

STILLWATER---Concentrating on a positive body image and eating nutritious foods are much more important than extreme dieting and weight loss.

Most women's fitness magazines and news articles focus on losing weight instead of promoting a positive body image and healthy lifestyles, said Stephany Parker, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Community Nutrition Education Programs nutrition education assistant specialist.

"A lot of press gets published about losing weight," Parker said. "This promotes and fosters negative attitudes towards overweight and obese individuals and perpetuates negative body image among children and adults."

According to the American Psychological Association, 30 to 40 percent of Americans are unhappy with their appearance, and another 45 percent of Americans may experience anxiety or depression due to dissatisfaction with their appearance. 

Parker said it is important for people to protect their self-esteem from the promise of perfection that is offered by the media.

"Practicing self-acceptance helps promote good health," she said. "Due to genetics and body types, everyone cannot be thin, but most can exercise and eat nutritious foods."

Following are some tips to help focus on a positive body image:

1.    Do not play mind games with food. Food is not the enemy. Eat healthy but do not obsess.

2.    Speak lovingly and positively to yourself. Fight negative self-talk by complimenting yourself. Look for the good and praise it. Remind yourself how wonderful you are.

3.    Look at the other real bodies around you. The majority are not models. Appreciate the beauty of your own body and try not to compare yourself to glossy media images.

4.    Learn the basics of exercise and nutrition and set realistic goals. Your focus should always be on your health.

5.    Start your own fitness program. Walk, run, bike or do aerobics. Exercise makes you feel good about your body. Indulge your body in activities that are fun and feel good.

6.    Ask for support and encouragement from family and friends when life is stressful and you are feeling down.

7.    Focus on living a whole and fulfilled life, both personally and professionally. Enjoy family, friends and life. Participate in something everyday that brings you joy.

"Next time you pick up that women's fitness magazine, remember that promoting a positive image is important for your overall health," Parker said. "Choose to take care of yourself, and in return, you will feel good about yourself."

Prepared by:

Mandy Gross

Communications Specialist

grossmh@okstate.edu 

Prepared for:

Stephany Parker, PhD

CNEP Nutrition Ed. Asst. Specialist

spp@okstate.edu