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Today we celebrate International No Diet Day, a reminder of the beauty of food diversity and the importance of embracing all food types in our diets. This day serves as a refreshing break from the restrictive eating patterns that have become all too common in our pursuit of health or the ideal body image. It’s a chance to appreciate food in its entirety, fostering a healthier relationship with eating that centres around balance and enjoyment, rather than restriction and guilt.

Kenya, with its rich culinary heritage, offers a splendid array of foods that can nourish the body and delight the senses. From the comforting warmth of ugali and sukuma wiki to the vibrant flavours of pilau and samosas, each dish tells a story of culture and community. On this day, every Kenyan is encouraged to savour these flavours without the shadow of dietary restrictions looming overhead. This is not just about indulgence; it’s about cultivating an appreciation for every meal as a part of a balanced lifestyle.

Moreover, the notion of enjoying a variety of foods can be quite liberating. It aligns with the principles of intuitive eating, which emphasise listening to the body’s hunger and fullness cues and granting oneself permission to eat without guilt. This approach not only nurtures a positive food experience, but also supports mental health, which is just as crucial as physical well-being. By stepping away from rigid diet rules, we open the door to a more sustainable and enjoyable way of eating.

Additionally, this celebration acts as a counterbalance to the diet culture that often dominates our screens and social conversations, promoting a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition that doesn’t take into account individual needs and preferences. Instead of striving for an unattainable ideal, International No Diet Day encourages a holistic view of health, where food is a source of joy and nutrition, not anxiety or conflict.

As we observe this day, let it be a reminder that our diets do not need to be perfect to be healthy. Every food, when eaten in moderation, can fit into a balanced diet. It’s about giving ourselves the freedom to enjoy all foods and respecting our bodies enough to feed them well.