Dieting

/ˈdaɪətɪŋ/ verb

Definition

The practice of restricting food intake or following a specific eating plan, typically to lose weight or improve health. Present participle of 'diet.'

Etymology

From Greek 'diaita' meaning 'way of life' or 'mode of living,' through Latin 'diaeta.' Originally referred to a entire lifestyle regimen, but by the 14th century began focusing specifically on food consumption patterns and restrictions.

Kelly Says

The word 'diet' originally meant your entire way of living, not just what you ate! The modern obsession with weight-loss dieting is relatively recent - for most of human history, having enough food was the primary concern, making deliberate food restriction a luxury of abundance.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Dieting is gendered rhetoric—women's bodies are scrutinized and pathologized; diet industry targets women with shame. Men's fitness is framed as strength-building.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'nutrition,' 'health goals,' or 'eating patterns.' When discussing body image, name that weight stigma disproportionately harms women and LGBTQ+ people.

Inclusive Alternatives

["nutrition planning","eating pattern","health-centered eating"]

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