Unwanted Attention.

It seems like ever since I started eating healthier (small snack-meals of fresh fruits and veggies, nuts, cheese and complex carbohydrates), I've been getting the run-around at work.

If it's not someone commenting on my "healthy looking snack" or making sure "that's not your lunch, right?", it's awkward stares from people in the elevator or hallway.

I don't want to justify my eating habits, nor spend time explaining with every person I run into that eating the traditional three-meals-a-day upsets my stomach and digestive system. Unfortunately, these comments and looks are making me feel very insecure.

Perhaps I'm overreacting, but I don't want the attention. It triggers thoughts of people judging my diet and my body.

What can I do to resolve this? Is it my problem alone and I need to get through the emotions internally? Do I need to say something to my co-workers? (It's a large company, and I don't know most of these people).

Your thoughts, comments and suggestions are greatly appreciated!

Are you eating in the elevator/hallway?

:D

Our break room (where the refrigerator, sink, etc.) is on a different floor and every floor has a lobby/hallway from the work areas to the elevators.

People are seeing me in passing with my plate of food as I make my way back to my desk.

Ah, gotcha.

My guess - they aren't staring at you as in "how strange" or "how dare she!"

More that they are used to seeing people carrying folders and papers... and when it's a plate of food (and it isn't noon), they startle a little and it makes them stare. Just because it's different from what they'd expect.

I wouldn't worry about it. Easier said than done, but I don't think they are judging you.

I eat like you and I get a lot of comments about how I am constantly eating.  They don't realize that I eat very small portions, they just see me eating often and at nontraditional times.  I got really sick of explaining myself after about the 3rd person, so when I get a comment, I just say "yes, I eat constantly"  and move on. 

I would suggest saying something sometime to see if it makes you feel better.  Don't get defensive or anything...you don't really know what they are thinking.  When you catch someone staring you could try saying something like, "yeah, this fruit looks good doesn't it?  are you jealous?"  If it gets annoying or doesn't make you feel better, do your best to just ignore them.

Unless they comment, I'd just give them a bright smile (yeah, it's hard when you are annoyed, but at least it shows that you know what you are doing and they can't 'get' to you). If someone is rude and makes comments, just answer "That's right, that's my snack. Delicious and healthy on top of that. Do you want the recipe?" If you keep smiling and are non-confrontational, they'll probably leave you alone. Some people with bad food habits tend to resent healthy eaters because they make them feel bad, but guess what, I am not going to start eating donuts so that you'll feel comfortable with your junk food!

Instead of walking with an open plate, could you use a bag or a portable cooler type bag?  That way, they can't actually see what you're carrying.....not that you need to hide anything.  But maybe it'll make your life a bit easier.  Just a thought.

I think you all have great points. Thank you so much for sharing with me!

Amethyst, You're probably right -- It probably startles people that I have a plate of random food when they're used to it being such a work-only environment. 

Hotfuss, Right on the money there. Things can be awkward sometimes, always explaining or defending. I think your idea to not let myself get defensive is key. 

Gunnercade, Kill them with kindness, right? Your approach seems like a good idea. If nothing else, I might talk so much that they leave me alone for fear of social interaction. (The bulk of my co-workers are introverts) Not only that, but I totally get what you're saying about the junk food vs. healthy food battle. Sometimes I want a sign that says "Please don't hate me for eating healthy, I'm not judging your hamburger ... I just feel better eating this way!"

Michelle, You're a genius! How obvious, yet I never thought of that. Perhaps I'll wait to cut up my fruits and veggies until I get to my desk and just put them in baggies for the trip up from the break room. Fabulous thought!