Is Your Weight Gain an Unconscious Attempt to Feel Safe?

The Link Between Trauma and Weight

This article is inspired by the insights and discussions presented in Episode 52 of The Born to Heal Podcast by Dr. Katie Deming, The Conscious Oncologist.

Have you ever felt like you're constantly struggling with your weight? Like no matter what you do, those extra pounds just won't budge??

Trust me, you're not alone. As a doctor, I've seen so many patients who are just stuck. They're frustrated, confused, and feel like they're doing everything right, but the scale just won't cooperate. But what if I told you that there might be more to the story than just diet and exercise?

I spoke to Matty Lansdown on the Born to Heal podcast. He's a former cancer researcher turned nutritionist who specializes in emotional eating. He said something that really stuck with me. He told me that for some women, carrying extra weight can actually be a way to feel safer. Like a kind of unconscious barrier against unwanted attention.?

How Past Experiences Can Shape Your Relationship with Your Body

Imagine going through life always feeling on edge, always worried that someone might harass you or worse. For a lot of women who have gone through sexual trauma, that fear is real. It's with them every single day.?

So, without even realizing it, your body and mind might start trying to protect you. And one way they might do that is by holding onto extra weight. Because if you feel less attractive, maybe you'll be less likely to be targeted. It's a heartbreaking thought, isn't it?

The Struggle of Dieting

Okay, so let's say you're stuck in that awful cycle of yo-yo dieting. You know, you lose some weight, feel great, but then it all comes back and then some. It's so frustrating. But here's the thing.?

If your weight gain is tied to past trauma, your unconscious mind might be sabotaging you. Think about it. As you start to lose weight and your body changes, you might start feeling more exposed, more vulnerable. And that can trigger all sorts of fears and anxieties. So, you self-sabotage, fall back into old habits, and all of a sudden - the weight's back.

Breaking Free from This Cycle

If any of this resonates with you, if you think your weight might be tied to past trauma, please know that you're not alone and there is hope. The first step is just being aware of the connection.?

Once you recognize that link between your experiences and your body, you can start to work through it. You can start to find healthier ways to cope and it's okay to ask for directions along the way.?

Don't be afraid to reach out for help. A professional who specializes in trauma or emotional eating can provide you with the support and tools you need to work through your experiences and start building a better relationship with your body. It takes time. It takes patience and a whole lot of self-love. But you can break free from the cycle of trauma-induced weight gain.?

And you can start living the healthy, happy life you deserve. To Listen to the entire episode with Matty Lansdown go to Apple Podcasts or Spotify.