So, How’s That Summer Body Going?
As summer nears, Lebanon’s rich culture and love of food take center stage. From family gatherings to festive meals, the season often brings heightened attention to physical appearance. The pressure to achieve a “summer body” resurfaces annually, prompting a closer look at what that term really means. Is it about reaching a certain aesthetic ideal, or about feeling healthy and present in the moment?
In an exclusive interview with the MTV website, nutritionist Mary Mardiros addressed the unhealthy standards and expectations that often accompany this seasonal obsession.
“Diet culture has long been dominated by rigid rules, restrictive plans, and fleeting trends,” says Mardiros. “People chase quick fixes, but these usually lead to guilt, frustration, and an unhealthy relationship with food.”
For Mardiros, creating a healthier mindset starts with challenging those rules. “There is no such thing as good or bad food. Sometimes, we eat less nutritious options, and that’s acceptable because food also serves an emotional purpose. It’s not just about fueling the body, but also about nourishing the soul.”
The Pressure of Unrealistic Standards
The concept of the “summer body” is not only widespread but also misleading. Social media platforms and advertising campaigns often promote unrealistic standards that generate pressure, especially in the weeks leading up to summer.
“This entire concept is a marketing tool,” Mardiros explains. “Every body is different, and those images we see online are usually curated, edited, and supported by teams of stylists and professionals. Comparing yourself to these images is both unrealistic and harmful.”
Rather than striving for an idealized version of beauty, Mardiros encourages people to prioritize their own health and well-being. “Your body is unique. Care for it based on your own needs, not external comparisons.”
The Role of Culture in Body Image
In Lebanon, food holds cultural significance and plays a central role in celebrations. However, this connection can also create challenges during holidays and festive seasons when food is more abundant.
“Eating more during celebrations is completely normal,” Mardiros notes. “But in Lebanese society, there’s often a negative stigma around weight gain. It’s viewed as a sign of laziness or poor health, while weight loss is frequently praised, regardless of its cause.”
She warns against letting these judgments interfere with personal well-being. “The holidays should be about creating memories, not monitoring calorie intake. Self-worth cannot be measured by a number on the scale.”
Extreme dieting and meal skipping, often viewed as shortcuts to weight loss, can have the opposite effect. “When we deprive our bodies, they shift into survival mode, which may result in nutrient deficiencies, weight plateaus, or even episodes of binge eating.” she explains.
Instead, Mardiros promotes a balanced, sustainable approach that includes mindful eating. “This means paying attention to what you eat, understanding your hunger cues, and eating without distractions.”
Focusing on Long-Term Well-Being
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, according to Mardiros, doesn’t have to be complicated. “Start with the basics: nourish your body with whole foods, get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and find physical activity you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s pilates, paddle, or even home-based workouts.”
She also highlights the importance of seeking help when needed. “If emotional eating or food control becomes overwhelming, consult a professional. There’s no shame in asking for support.”
At the core of Lebanese culinary culture is connection. Sharing meals with others is not just about food, it’s about care and belonging. “When we ask loved ones what they want to eat, we do so to make them feel valued,” Mardiros concludes. “We need to remember to show that same care to ourselves.”
As summer approaches, the goal should not be to conform to an ideal, but to enjoy the season, honor your body, and focus on health and joy, not appearance.
