Black-and-white thinking creates a trap: once you eat something “bad,” the day is “ruined,” so you keep eating. Research by Mann shows prohibition increases craving — forbidden foods become obsession. Foods exist on a spectrum from more beneficial to less beneficial. A nuanced view allows imperfect choices without catastrophe.
This companion covers the black-and-white pattern, how it hurts you (the “what the hell” effect, restriction backlash), the gray alternative, and making the shift. (3 min read)