Are You Looking for Permission to Restrict Your Food?

We’ve all done it—scrolled past a perfectly curated “what I eat in a day” video and wondered, Am I doing it wrong? Should I be eating like that? Should I be eating…less?

In this episode of the Millennial Body Image Project, we’re unpacking a sneaky and deeply ingrained habit: crowdsourcing validation for food restriction. Whether it’s from influencers, well-meaning “non-diet” nutritionists, or therapeutic TikTok protocols, so many of us are unknowingly looking for permission to eat less, cut out certain foods, or follow a set of rules that promise to “fix” our bodies.

But is it really health you're chasing—or the illusion of control?

We explore:

• How restriction shows up in both obvious and subtle ways

• Why “healthifying” your diet isn’t always as innocent as it seems

• The difference between seeking empowerment vs. outsourcing authority over your body

• What makes social media posts feel credible—and why that deserves a second look

• How to recognize when you're drawn to information that validates restriction (even when it’s disguised as wellness)

If you've ever felt validated by someone telling you to eat “cleaner” or “cut out sugar” and wondered if that makes you more disciplined or just more disordered… this conversation is for you.

🎧 Listen to the full episode for reflection questions and practical insights on how to shift from restriction to true body trust.

Curious if your food rules are holding you back? Start by listening below and explore the deeper conversation in our private Patreon community.