My friend keeps talking about this diet she's going on and how she only wants to eat 1000 calories a day or less. This makes me uncomfortable, especially at lunch when I'm eating a normal lunch and all she has is an apple and some crackers. I want to tell her to be healthy, and I'm worried she doesn't eat enough. What should I say without being mean?
Hi.
It's certainly understandable that you're concerned about your friend. It sounds as though she may not be consuming enough food to maintain proper metabolism, but it's hard to judge another person's eating. Some people, encouraged by research that links "calorie restriction" diets to better health and longer life, have adopted this strategy as a lifestyle choice.
Ultimately, the responsibility for your friend's eating rests with her, but there are ways you can help. If she is overweight and trying to lose a few pounds, for example, point out articles that explain how to lose weight in a healthy way. Or encourage her to exercise more instead of maintaining an overly strict diet. Participating in exercise together might benefit both of you.
If your friend is average to thin and you are noticing very extreme limits on eating or other behaviors (like throwing up after meals), then she may have a serious problem. In that case, seek the advice or intervention of a trusted adult like a school counselor, or speak directly to her parents.
