Love is in the air.
Valentine’s Day weekend just passed, and there were so many articles and posts with LOVE advice. But what was missing was advice on one of the most important relationships in our lives, the relationship we have with FOOD.
So below is a Q&A I recently did with a magazine all about creating a healthy relationship with food…
Q1: How would you summarize your values and mindset around nutrition?
I practice Positive Joyful Nutrition, which means focusing on what you ADD to make meals both:
– Physically nourishing
– Mentally satisfying
Eat what you crave, but aim to do it with ingredients that make you feel good physically.
Here’s why that matters:
– Meals that are only physically nourishing can leave you unsatisfied and wanting more.
– Meals that are only mentally satisfying can leave you hungry and low energy.
Having both is the key to nutrition that feels positive, sustainable, and joyful.
This isn’t about being “good.”
It’s about feeling good.
Q2: So many people feel caught between “being good” and “treating themselves.” How do we get out of that cycle?
This is one of the biggest struggles I see.
The problem isn’t your willpower.
It’s the mindset.
When we categorize foods as “good” or “bad,” we create tension. And tension often leads to yo-yo eating.
Instead, ask:
– What would make this meal more satisfying?
– What would make this meal more nourishing?
For example:
– Craving pizza? Add a side salad or roasted veggies.
– Want chocolate? Pair it with yogurt and berries.
– In the mood for a burger? Add lettuce, tomato, avocado, and a whole grain bun.
Q3: If you were to add advice to the new Dietary Guidelines, what would you add?
I’d add positive food relationship principles such as:
– Progress over perfection
– Enjoy all foods, in balance
– Eat meals in mindful, connected spaces
– Protect time for food and eating
– Practice real-life cooking skills
Nutrition isn’t just nutrients.
It’s behavior. It’s environment. It’s mindset.
Q4: What are your thoughts on food “rules” or restrictions?
Strict food rules create a negative relationship with food and sabotage healthy eating rather than support it.
When you tell yourself:
– “I can’t have bread.”
– “I’m never eating sugar again.”
– “Carbs are bad.”
It creates a scarcity mindset.
Scarcity leads to obsession.
Obsession leads to overdoing it.
Instead of rigid rules, try guidelines with flexibility.
For example:
– “I feel better when I eat protein at breakfast.”
– “I sleep better when I don’t eat too late at night.”
– “I like my energy levels when I add veggies to meals.”
Those are empowering guidelines, not punishment.
Q5: Can processed foods or fast food fit into a balanced diet?
Absolutely. It’s about frequency and intention.
If it’s an occasional choice because it sounds delicious, no big deal.
But if drive-thru visits or takeout are happening more often than home cooking, it may be a sign that it’s time to build a short list of quick meals that hit the same craving, but add more nutrition.
Think:
– Homemade egg roll bowl instead of takeout
– Sweetpotato fries baked at home
– Greek yogurt dessert bowl
Not restriction. Just upgrades.
Q6: What about moderation? Isn’t that the goal?
I don’t actually like the word “moderation.”
It implies:
– Don’t have too much.
– Be careful.
– Rein it in.
It still carries diet-culture energy. Policing, not empowering.
Instead, I prefer: “Eat with intention.”
Slow down.
Check in.
Ask yourself: What’s the purpose of this meal?
Fuel? Celebration? Comfort? Social connection?
When you decide with intention, there’s no guilt.
There’s ownership.
Q7: What if someone feels guilty after eating certain foods?
Guilt doesn’t improve health.
It increases stress. And stress negatively impacts digestion, hormones, and appetite.
Instead of guilt, try curiosity:
– Was I overly hungry?
– Was I tired?
– Was I eating distracted?
– Did I actually enjoy it?
Curiosity builds awareness.
Awareness builds change.
Q8: What’s the one thing you wish more people understood about healthy eating?Healthy eating isn’t about being perfect.
It’s about building a way of eating that:
– Fuels your body
– Satisfies your mind
– Fits your real life
– Supports your energy long-term
You deserve meals that nourish you and delight you. And help you feel your very best, now and for years to come.
xx DJB
