Amal Muhammad Amin
It has always been repeated on the tongues of many, the famous example: “The shortest way to the man’s heart is his stomach,” as if it is an absolute and indisputable fact, or a magical key to the happiness of marital life. But have we ever thought about the depth of this saying? Is it really a reflection of a sound understanding of the nature of the marital relationship, or is it just a superficial reduction that reduces the value of a man, and reduces the interest of women in the role of chefs?
In fact, this proverb is not only wrong, but it may be destroyed if it is taken as a reference in marital life. A man, like a woman, is a multi -dimensional being, with his physical, emotional and intellectual needs. With the progress of time and the change of lifestyles, the “full stomach” is no longer sufficient to form a healthy and stable relationship. Rather, physical and psychological health and effective communication have become unavoidable priorities.
Health first .. not just satiety
It is a common mistake to link food with love, while the most important thing is to link love with real attention, which begins with care for the partner’s health not only its weight. Preparing delicious food is OK, but it may be a beautiful expression of love, but the most beautiful is that we care about the quality of the food, with its balance, with the extent of its usefulness, not only with its amount, fat, or skewers.
It is sad that many couples suffer from diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, all resulting from unhealthy nutritional habits, many of which are gained inside the house. The irony is that the wife – a good intention – may think that she is happy with her husband to prepare fatty foods daily, while she silently brings him closer to serious diseases.
Here, the importance of entering healthy options in family cuisine, such as:
Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, rich in omega -3.
Boiled eggs as a source of light and healthy protein.
Grilled chicken instead of fried.
Brown bread and whole grains instead of white bread.
Leafy vegetables such as spinach and watercress.
Fresh fruits instead of processed sweets.
Raw nuts as a light meal rich in healthy fat.
Oats instead of sugary breakfast chips.
Water or natural juices instead of soft drinks.
These options do not reduce the taste of foods as much as they add real value at the level of health, energy and activity, which will be reflected directly on the quality of marital life.
Health and appearance: A shared responsibility for a man’s health does not stop at the kitchen, but rather extends to his entire lifestyle. Is he exercising? Does he sleep well? Is he continuing his health? Does he care about his appearance and personal hygiene? All of these things reflect his respect for himself and his life partner, and vice versa.
It is good for the wife to seek to encourage her husband in a healthy lifestyle, not a matter of guardianship, but rather a partnership. Sports, exit to nature, and eating healthy meals, may be activities that combine the spouses, and enhance the relationship more than a “stuffed tagine” at the dinner table.
Love is deeper than the proverb
In the end, love is not measured in the stomach, but with care, with respect, and with the sincere desire that each side see the other in its best. To be in good health, to look elegant, to feel energy and vibrant – all of this reflects on the relationship positively.
Therefore, let us consider thinking about the proverbs that we inherited, and let us make the true scale: “The shortest path to the man’s heart, to be concerned with his health and happiness as a human being, not only as a hungry person.”
