I am a cake girlie 🦋✨
I love cakes and fruits- I could eat these all day everyday. Thankfully, I have enough self control that I don’t actually do it. However, being neurodivergent makes it hard to stick to a healthy diet, mostly because I forget to eat, or I get very particular about food texture, colors and smells. When I was in hell at my PhD program, I don’t think I had a full meal for years (let alone a healthy one). This is something people in grad school don’t talk about much (I think) … and it’s important because toxic environments influence habits and nutrition. I wonder what other people do in similar situations ? #food #neurodivergent #gradschoolfood #mentalhealth #embracevulnerability
Being a 'cake girlie' isn't just a label for me; it's a core part of who I am! I truly believe that loving cakes and sweet treats is something to embrace, not something to feel guilty about. But let's be real, navigating a healthy diet when you adore desserts can be a journey, especially if you're neurodivergent like me. I've been on a mission to figure out how to be a happy 'cake girlie' while still giving my body the nourishment it needs. One of the biggest hurdles, which many neurodivergent folks might relate to, is the sheer unpredictability of appetite and sensory preferences. Some days, the thought of anything but my 'Favorite Foods' like a perfectly crafted fruit tart or a creamy cannoli just won't do. And other days, I might forget to eat entirely, only to crash later. What I've learned is that rigid diet plans often backfire. Instead, I focus on gentle nutrition and listening to my body, while also prepping for those challenging moments. For instance, instead of banning all cakes, I've started exploring "diet theme cake" concepts in my own way – not necessarily low-calorie versions, but rather mindful choices. This means savoring a smaller portion of a rich peach-shaped pastry, truly enjoying every bite, rather than mindlessly devouring a huge slice. And when I crave something sweet but want it to be fruit-based, I go for things like fresh cherries and a juicy peach, which are literally "What I Eat ❤️ Most of the Time." They satisfy that sweet tooth while providing essential nutrients. My secret weapon for staying on track, especially when my brain fog kicks in or sensory issues make food challenging, is having easy, healthy options readily available. My 'SPECIAL DRINK,' that vibrant green smoothie I make, is truly 'THE BEST REFRESHER.' It's packed with greens but tastes delicious and is super easy to consume when other textures or smells are overwhelming. I also try to keep a variety of fruits washed and ready to grab – berries, grapes, apples – anything that appeals to my senses at that moment. During my incredibly stressful PhD program, I honestly felt like my diet was non-existent. It was a constant cycle of forgetting to eat, then grabbing whatever was quick and comforting – often, you guessed it, cake! But surviving that period taught me the importance of self-compassion and small, consistent steps. I realized that a person who loves cakes, often lovingly called a 'cake girlie,' can absolutely maintain a balanced lifestyle. It's about finding your unique balance, not following someone else's perfect plan. If you're also a neurodivergent 'cake girlie' navigating your diet, please know you're not alone. I've found that having a few go-to sensory-friendly meals, making sure I have protein and fiber alongside my treats, and giving myself grace are key. What are your hacks for balancing your love for delicious food with your health goals? I'd love to hear your experiences and tips!
