Are You Stuck in the C-FAST Cycle?

The following quiz will help you determine whether you may be caught in the C-FAST cycle. For some people, conditioned reactions play a minor role in their food sensitivities, while for others, they have a major—and sometimes debilitating—impact.

Approach the assessment with an open, self-compassionate mindset.

Risk Factors for Getting Stuck in Food Sensitivity Fear:

  • Mysterious symptoms
  • Food and symptom journaling
  • Diagnosed food hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis, celiac disease)
  • Food sensitivity testing
  • Participating in online support groups that discuss food sensitivities or rigid nutrition views
  • Reading articles or watching videos about the dangers of common foods
  • Limiting your diet based on restriction lists (e.g., low histamine, low salicylate, etc.)
  • Working with health professionals that suggest or reinforce extreme dietary restrictions

Red Flags:

  • Overthinking food and symptoms
  • Symptoms when you see or think about food
  • Mental or physical tension when you think about food
  • Impulsive eating
  • Avoiding food-related social gatherings
  • Food restrictions have increased over time

Common Feelings When You are Trapped:

  • Frustrated by an endless cycle of elimination diets
  • Hypervigilant around food
  • Preoccupied with food and symptoms
  • Confused/frustrated about what to eat and what to avoid
  • Powerless over food and symptoms

If you checked three or more statements, you may be caught in the C-FAST cycle. Keep reading to learn how to rebuild trust with food and your body and expand your diet.

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