
Is food incompatibility a deal-breaker in relationships?
'I don't want to cook two separate meals every day. And if I have to live with his parents, I may never get to eat the way I want,' she tells us.Her mother, Neeru Khanna (name changed), 63, disagrees. She's had different food preferences from her husband for over 25 years and believes it's no big deal. 'It's just this generation. They don't want to adjust,' she shares.Is it true that your food preferences can impact your relationship, and is it happening more with the newer generations?Love on the menuRuchi Ruuh, a Delhi-based relationship counsellor, tells India Today that food preferences can absolutely impact relationships, not because of the food itself, but rather because of what food represents. Food is a representation of our values, culture, comfort, routine, and even identity.'If your partner is vegan and finds the smell of eggs repulsive, it's not just a dietary difference; it becomes a conversation about how two people with different thoughts can co-exist with respect for each other's liking. Small things like eating together can slowly build an emotional connection too,' she states.Dr Rahul Chandhok, head consultant, mental health and behavioural science, Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram, agrees and mentions that people don't always realise how much food preferences can affect relationships.
Mealtime can help build a relationship | Photo: Pexels/RDNE Stock project
'Eating together can help people get to know each other better, but having different diets, like being vegetarian or not, liking spicy food or bland food, or eating healthy food or junk food, can cause problems every day. If partners don't respect each other's choices, planning meals, going out to eat, or even going grocery shopping can lead to fights,' he says.Same taste, stronger bond?According to Ruuh, while having the same food preferences isn't necessarily better, it is often easier.'Sharing food preferences can create more shared experiences like cooking together, exploring food, and celebrating festivals. But compatibility isn't just about sameness; it's about how you handle differences. A couple with totally different food preferences can still thrive if they respect each other's boundaries and make space for their individual needs.''If a couple values each other's tastes and finds a way to meet in the middle, they can still be happy together,' adds Dr Chandhok.When couples accept each other's tastes and find a balance, it brings them closer together. But if you and your partner are always fighting over food, it could mean that you don't get along or don't want to give in.Food becomes a bridge instead of a wall when people are respectful, understanding, and open-minded.Is it a generational thing?The experts feel that people from older generations often thought of relationships as lifelong commitments where everyone had to give and take, even when it came to food. But now, people care more about their own comfort and individuality than they used to. As they learn more about mental health, boundaries, and who they are, they are less likely to give up what they want, even in relationships.advertisementThis transition has surely taught the newer generations about self-respect, but it can also make them less accepting of differences.'Today's relationships are more desire and value-based. The bar has shifted, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. People want to feel seen, not just tolerated,' mentions Ruuh.Impact on intimacyYes, your food choices do impact the mood.'Intimacy is built on everyday moments like emotional intelligence, not just sex and deep conversations. When you feel judged for your food choices, or you have to eat separately every day, it can reduce shared rituals, create subtle resentment, and emotional distance,' shares Ruuh.
Your food habits can affect your intimacy with your partner | Photo: Pexels/Valentin Antonucci
She adds that, on the flip side, offering a bite of your favourite dish or cooking something your partner loves is one of the most primal love languages.advertisementDr Chandhok also feels that food can make people more connected or emotionally distant. If partners eat apart or feel judged for what they eat, this separation can also affect physical closeness over time, since being close to someone depends on doing things together and accepting each other.'Intimacy isn't just about touching; it's also about feeling seen, accepted, and valued, even in small things like food. If you don't pay attention to small gaps, they can widen the emotional distance,' he adds.POV: Health and nutritionNot just the relationship, but a couple's food preferences can also impact their lifestyle and well-being.Dr Karthigai Selvi A, head of clinical nutrition and dietetics, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, tells us that having different food choices impacts meal planning.'Differing food preferences often mean separate meals or compromise, which can cause time and energy strain, leading to skipped meals, imbalanced nutrient intake, or convenience eating,' she says.Further, having to cater to different food needs with every meal can impact a couple's health both positively and negatively.If preparing two separate meals feels overwhelming, one or both partners might default to a quick fix or skip meals altogether. Constantly accommodating different food needs, such as allergies, intolerances, cultural or religious diets, or medical conditions, can lead to decision fatigue and meal temptation.advertisementIt can also lead to rapid weight changes or disordered eating, as one partner may try to adjust their eating style inappropriately to match the other.On the positive side, having different food preferences can increase dietary diversity, leading to broader micronutrient intake. It can also improve food awareness. Catering to another person's needs often increases label reading, home cooking, and mindfulness, which results in better long-term health habits and disease prevention.Navigating the differencesInstead of trying to make everything the same, focus on being emotionally flexible when it comes to food differences in a relationship. Know that food is connected to who you are, how you feel, and your memories.Do not try to change each other, but make room for both of your tastes. Create shared food rituals that feel safe for both. Cook together one day, eat separately the next. Learn each other's food boundaries.Don't use mealtime to control; use it to connect. Be open to communication and flexible in understanding your partner's point of view.Respect is important. Don't make fun of or judge how people eat. It's easier to make small compromises when both partners feel safe and valued.Make it a combined effort. One person should not be solely responsible for the food. This way, you'll be able to spend more quality time together.Meanwhile, Dr Karthigai Selvi A suggests that while navigating different food choices, a couple must discuss non-negotiables, like allergies or religious food restrictions.To simplify things, she recommends finding shared foods and building meals around them, using a shared foundation and customisable add-ons.The other way aroundIt's quite natural to wonder whether your relationship can impact your food choices and, if so, is that a red flag?According to Ruuh, if you start enjoying something like sushi because your partner loves it, and you're exploring it with them, that's a beautiful connection. But if you stop eating what you love because your partner mocks it, that's a red flag. That's not growth, it's control dressed as influence.'A healthy relationship may expand your food world. A toxic one will shrink it until it no longer feels like you,' she concludes.- EndsTune InMust Watch

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
EUME opens first store in Bengaluru, aims 8-10 new EBOs this year
Bengaluru: Backed by a recent Rs 25 crore Series A funding round, homegrown premium luggage brand EUME is accelerating its offline retail footprint with plans to open 8–10 exclusive brand outlets (EBOs) this year, co-founder Naina Parekh said in an interview with ETRetail. 'We are working on launching about 8 to 10 EBOs this year,' Parekh said. 'We are hoping to go into key cities such as Bombay, Bangalore, and Delhi. These are our top priority cities at this point.' The Mumbai-based brand opened its first store at Phoenix Mall of Asia , Bengaluru, on Saturday. EUME already runs two company-owned stores, one in Mumbai's Infiniti Malad and another in Hyderabad's Sarath City Mall. 'We are trying to now bring the visibility of our products in stores, so that the customers know what EUME stands for,' Parekh said, explaining the focus on offline expansion. Hinting at interest from potential franchisees, Parekh said, 'We've had a few people already approach us for franchising, but I think we still have to solidify our retail plans before we can go out into a franchise model.' EUME, which raised its Series A funding in early 2024 led by Gujarat Venture Finance Limited (GVFL), had said the funds would be utilised to ramp up product development, strengthen its online presence, and expand into offline retail through EBOs and strategic partnerships. The company's existing product portfolio includes a mix of smart backpacks, travel accessories , and personal care lines. Without sharing the exact revenue details, Parekh said that the brand currently operates at a monthly run rate of Rs 4–5 crore.


Hindustan Times
9 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Want to create a hot desi girl look? Know how to style and layer your silver jewellery with these tips
Silver jewellery has a strong hold in desi looks, whether it's the breezy, bohemian fits for brunches and hangouts or classy accessories perfect for workwear. The format of silver may vary, from sleek sterling pieces to vintage-style oxidised ones. But regardless of the finish, the desi girl look almost always finds its match in silver. Celebs both on-screen and off-screen embrace the charm of silver pieces for an effortless look. (Reference pics: Pinterest) ALSO READ: Pearls reimagined: 5 looks that show the never-seen-before versatility of this classic accessory Over the decades, silver has had its strong moment, both on screen and off in Bollywood, like Alia Bhatt's Rani Chatterjee in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, unapologetically pairing stylish nose pins and jhumkas with sarees and bindi at the workplace (classic desi boss lady vibes). Or Sonam Kapoor's character Bittu Sharma from Delhi-6, rocking a headscarf, halter neck top, midi skirt with chunky silver necklace, earrings and a baajubandh (for that uber cool vibe). Even off-screen, celebs stun in silver, like Aditi Rao Hydari's selfie, featuring stacked silver bangles and jhumkas (jhumka is a non-negotiable staple in every desi girl's wardrobe, even celebs). So, if you wish to make your accessorising game look effortlessly 'desi, confident, and hot-girl snatched', you have got to get your basics right, starting with the fundamentals of silver jewellery. HT Lifestyle reached out to experts to understand some of the key styling rules related to silver jewellery. Festive occasion-centric styling Silver jewellery pairs beautifully with ethnic wear, just like how Sanya Malhotra effortlessly styled a printed saree with elegant silver pieces. Saree is often worn during festive occasions, and when paired with silver, the look feels cohesive and complete. Even beyond festive celebrations or ethnic wear, silver adds a distinct charm. Aditya Modak, co-founder of Gargi & Utsaav by P N Gadgil and Sons, shared with HT Lifestyle some festive occasion-wise styling tips for oxidised jewellery. From grand weddings to intimate pujas and even workwear, he unpacked how oxidised silver pieces can be versatile. He said, 'One of the biggest strengths of oxidised jewellery is its ability to transition effortlessly into everyday wardrobes. A chunky ring with a matte finish, a geometric pendant, or engraved cuffs can turn even a simple jeans-and-shirt combination into something intentional. Worn with a monochrome jumpsuit or an oversized linen shirt, these accents speak of quiet confidence and style that does not try too hard.' Aditya further listed the silver jewellery pieces based on the occasion: Wedding: Intricately carved choker or a pair of oversized jhumkas layered with silver bangles can bring a touch of drama to a traditional look. Whether paired with a heritage silk saree or a richly embroidered lehenga, these pieces anchor the entire ensemble. Intricately carved choker or a pair of oversized jhumkas layered with silver bangles can bring a touch of drama to a traditional look. Whether paired with a heritage silk saree or a richly embroidered lehenga, these pieces anchor the entire ensemble. Puja at home/ brunch: Lighter pieces are ideal. A layered chain with delicate silver charms, or dainty studs with engraved detailing, pairs well with flowy kurtas, fusion wear, or even simple cotton sarees. Lighter pieces are ideal. A layered chain with delicate silver charms, or dainty studs with engraved detailing, pairs well with flowy kurtas, fusion wear, or even simple cotton sarees. Workwear: Silver ear cuffs How to do layering? Layering is about wearing multiple pieces together.(Reference Pics: Pinterest/@bidisha7roy and Pinterest/@selflove) Now that you have a general overview of what type of pieces usually go with an occasion, let's take a closer look at one of the popular styling principles: layering. Layering is all about stacking multiple pieces of jewellery, like rings, necklaces, and bangles, to create visual depth and dimension in your look. It adds more personality and texture to your outfit. Sanya Khandelwal, founder of Kicky and Perky, shared a guide to the rules regarding layering silver jewellery: 1. Asymmetrical length creates depth The easiest thing to play with, when attempting to layer, is length. Using necklaces or pendants of varying lengths creates visual focus and depth. You will want to try a short choker-style neckpiece along with mid-sized or long necklaces or pendants to create a cascading effect. If you can wear multiple ear piercings, consider using a stud in anything other than the lower lobe (the most common) piercing; wear a drop earring, a dangler or a hoop to create layers. 2. Start with the centre piece Choose a piece that can stand out, a statement piece that captures visual attention. Make it the focal point of your ensemble, and then work around it. Add elements of various styles/sizes that almost frame the main piece of interest, thus adding a dramatic flair to the outfit. 3. Consistency One easy and classic method of layering is with either the same or similar materials- the same metal, textures, colours and designs. You could, alternatively, also experiment with contrast utilising different kinds of colours, textures and metals. Contrasting these elements, based on other features of the overall outfit, can create some cool fits. 4. Day and night During the day, use simple and delicate pieces; nothing too extraordinary. At night, swap out one of the more subtle pieces for a piece of dramatic and bold statement jewellery.


India Today
12 hours ago
- India Today
Reddit user's 'Mumbai is making me cry' post goes viral
A Reddit post by a Dombivli-based user voicing frustration over Mumbai's draining commute and corporate rut has hit home for several social media the now-viral post shared on 'r/Mumbai', the user opened up about the toll that daily commutes and the pressures of corporate life had taken on them. Though their job was based in Navi Mumbai, they travelled from Dombivli every day, a journey that sometimes stretched to two hours one 'Three hours of commute and nine hours of work, I am so tired and burned out,' the user wrote. They admitted that they often contemplated quitting but didn't have any alternatives lined up. 'Each day I just think of resigning, but can't do it because currently I don't have any other opportunity at hand. I am fed up of this corporate life.'What made things worse for them was the realisation that the routine life they once thought they'd enjoy had left them feeling robotic and empty. 'I used to think I'll end up liking it a routine life, but turns out I hate it. It makes me cry every day. I want to do something else like going to the gym, reading books, and doing stuff that makes me feel alive. But as soon as I come back from the office, I make dinner and sleep instantly,' they went on to describe how the lack of growth, toxic work culture, and the sheer exhaustion had left them mentally drained. 'I feel like a robot - I am not in my senses. Daily commute, office toxic culture, and no growth environment has made me sick,' the post peers suggested they prepare for an MBA, the user revealed they were more inclined towards an MA. 'Everybody keeps saying prepare for MBA entrance. I don't want to do it. It will take the life out of me. I want to do an MA degree but I don't have knowledge about it. For doing what you want to learn, you first have to learn that. How sad is that,' they wrote while asking others for their a look at the post here: The post resonated with social media users. Several users shared their own experiences. A user suggested moving closer to work, saying, 'You'd save time, energy, and money. Navi Mumbai doesn't have exorbitant rents like Mumbai, so it's a practical option.'Another user shared, 'Can feel you yaar. I've started to lose hope and interest in everything. For me, it's five hours of travel and nine hours of work with no growth.'advertisementSeveral users gave them empathetic suggestions, including one user who said, 'Find some accommodation near your office. The physical and mental dividends it will pay will be worth the extra rent and food costs.'One of the users shared their own struggle: 'Same here. I travel to Andheri from Dombivli and it takes almost four hours of travel every day. It's my first job so I can't even afford living in Mumbai yet. I have to stay with my parents.'A particular comment that stood out was from someone who recently moved to the city: 'This is so real. I've felt how easily we've accepted our cities being unliveable. Crazy rents, long commutes, and the feeling of being a robot from Monday to Friday. I wanted to live in Mumbai for years and now I'm just disappointed and exhausted. And I'm an MBA, by the way. Even that only gives a bit more financial flexibility. The lifestyle problems remain.'While the user may have posted out of desperation, the flood of replies made one thing clear: urban burnout is real, and the city many once dreamt of living in is wearing people down.- EndsMust Watch