Mindful Eating Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chicago, IL

Photo of Jennifer DiPasquale, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jennifer DiPasquale
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Jennifer is a facilitator of Plant Forward, Health at any Size and Mindful Eating.
Jennifer is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She completed her clinical internship at St. John's Hospital after graduating from Illinois State University. Jennifer is an expert in inpatient, outpatient and community medical nutrition therapy and diabetes education. Jennifer will help you identify simple ways to make significant changes to meet your healthcare goals. Jennifer has successfully assisted many thousands of individuals throughout her career. Her philosophy is to partner with individuals wherever they are on their healthcare journey.
Jennifer is a facilitator of Plant Forward, Health at any Size and Mindful Eating.
Jennifer is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She completed her clinical internship at St. John's Hospital after graduating from Illinois State University. Jennifer is an expert in inpatient, outpatient and community medical nutrition therapy and diabetes education. Jennifer will help you identify simple ways to make significant changes to meet your healthcare goals. Jennifer has successfully assisted many thousands of individuals throughout her career. Her philosophy is to partner with individuals wherever they are on their healthcare journey.
(630) 349-4993 View (630) 349-4993
Photo of Maria Seitz, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Maria Seitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Specialties include: Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Intuitive and Mindful Eating, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
Specialties include: Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Intuitive and Mindful Eating, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
(872) 259-9747 View (872) 259-9747
Photo of Solveig Adalsteinsdottir, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Solveig Adalsteinsdottir
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Specialties Include: Women's Health, PCOS, Fertility, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Solveig is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in women's health, fertility, and PCOS. She fosters a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their relationship with food and learn to make mindful choices that nourish both body and soul. Solveig believes in a holistic, non-diet approach to nutrition counseling, empowering clients to be the expert of their own body. She believes her job as a dietitian is to share evidence-based knowledge, provide nutrition education, and help reframe limiting beliefs while respecting client's autonomy regarding their health choices.
Specialties Include: Women's Health, PCOS, Fertility, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Solveig is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in women's health, fertility, and PCOS. She fosters a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their relationship with food and learn to make mindful choices that nourish both body and soul. Solveig believes in a holistic, non-diet approach to nutrition counseling, empowering clients to be the expert of their own body. She believes her job as a dietitian is to share evidence-based knowledge, provide nutrition education, and help reframe limiting beliefs while respecting client's autonomy regarding their health choices.
(407) 326-0825 View (407) 326-0825
Photo of Julia Herbst, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Julia Herbst
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Diabetes, Cancer, Women's health, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, General Nutrition.
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Diabetes, Cancer, Women's health, Mindful and Intuitive Eating, General Nutrition.
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
(312) 494-0401 View (312) 494-0401
Photo of Kristin Paver, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kristin Paver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
(205) 880-1640 View (205) 880-1640
Photo of Elli Davis, RDN, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Elli Davis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
Specialties include: disordered eating, eating disorders, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, intuitive eating, mindful eating, general health and wellness.
Elli is a registered dietitian who loves to work with clients to facilitate behavior change around food and exercise. She uses the principles of Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size to guide nutrition therapy sessions while encouraging positive body image, mindful eating, and mindful movement. Elli believes in making realistic and sustainable changes to help people meet their goals. Elli believes in getting to know her clients to gain perspective into their health and wellness. She provides empathetic and relatable nutrition counseling while using a non-diet approach along with Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size.
Specialties include: disordered eating, eating disorders, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, intuitive eating, mindful eating, general health and wellness.
Elli is a registered dietitian who loves to work with clients to facilitate behavior change around food and exercise. She uses the principles of Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size to guide nutrition therapy sessions while encouraging positive body image, mindful eating, and mindful movement. Elli believes in making realistic and sustainable changes to help people meet their goals. Elli believes in getting to know her clients to gain perspective into their health and wellness. She provides empathetic and relatable nutrition counseling while using a non-diet approach along with Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size.
(720) 730-6696 View (720) 730-6696
Photo of Kelly Minarick, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kelly Minarick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Kelly Minarick is a Registered dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Kelly takes a weight-inclusive and person-centered approach to nutrition. She helps her clients become champions of their own bodies by encouraging mindful and attuned eating practices. She takes a non-diet approach to wellness and encourages balanced living and gentle nutrition. Kelly works with her clients to find a way of eating that works for them as an individual by taking their personal preferences, access to food, health history, lifestyles, and more into account.
Kelly Minarick is a Registered dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Kelly takes a weight-inclusive and person-centered approach to nutrition. She helps her clients become champions of their own bodies by encouraging mindful and attuned eating practices. She takes a non-diet approach to wellness and encourages balanced living and gentle nutrition. Kelly works with her clients to find a way of eating that works for them as an individual by taking their personal preferences, access to food, health history, lifestyles, and more into account.
(331) 246-0318 View (331) 246-0318
Photo of Haleigh Mann, MS,  RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Haleigh Mann
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Specialties include: disordered eating, mindful eating, intuitive eating, diabetes, and general lifestyle and nutrition for health and wellness.
Haleigh is a registered dietitian who is passionate about helping her clients discover their love for food and their bodies. Haleigh provides evidence-based nutrition education and works to empower clients to make realistic changes that work with their unique lifestyles and preferences. Haleigh approaches each client personally and individually. She has an anti-diet, all-foods-fit, trauma-informed approach to care. She enjoys the challenge of working closely with each client to meet their goals and live their best life while building a healthier relationship with food and their body.
Specialties include: disordered eating, mindful eating, intuitive eating, diabetes, and general lifestyle and nutrition for health and wellness.
Haleigh is a registered dietitian who is passionate about helping her clients discover their love for food and their bodies. Haleigh provides evidence-based nutrition education and works to empower clients to make realistic changes that work with their unique lifestyles and preferences. Haleigh approaches each client personally and individually. She has an anti-diet, all-foods-fit, trauma-informed approach to care. She enjoys the challenge of working closely with each client to meet their goals and live their best life while building a healthier relationship with food and their body.
(901) 460-9072 View (901) 460-9072
Photo of Jamie Schwartz, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jamie Schwartz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Specialties include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, ARFID, other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) disordered eating, chronic dieting, intuitive eating, mindful eating, HAES, body image concerns, and general nutrition.
Jamie is a Registered Dietitian with Health Loft who takes a compassionate approach to nutrition therapy by meeting people where they are in their personal journeys and helping them make incremental changes in order to restore a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. She understands the harmful nature of diet culture and takes an approach to nutrition therapy that is both affirming and sustainable. She will tailor a treatment plan based in an individual’s specific needs and goals, always striving towards a place of recovery and growth.
Specialties include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, ARFID, other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) disordered eating, chronic dieting, intuitive eating, mindful eating, HAES, body image concerns, and general nutrition.
Jamie is a Registered Dietitian with Health Loft who takes a compassionate approach to nutrition therapy by meeting people where they are in their personal journeys and helping them make incremental changes in order to restore a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. She understands the harmful nature of diet culture and takes an approach to nutrition therapy that is both affirming and sustainable. She will tailor a treatment plan based in an individual’s specific needs and goals, always striving towards a place of recovery and growth.
(512) 601-6347 View (512) 601-6347
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
(623) 323-5181 View (623) 323-5181
Photo of Kate Zalewski, RDN, CSR, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kate Zalewski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
I am a dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, based in Chicago, IL. I specialize in helping patients with kidney disease & kidney health concerns. Together we'll implement changes to help improve your labs, slow the progression of kidney disease, and ensure you enjoy what you eat! I’ll help you let go of fears and misconceptions about the "renal diet", and help you gain confidence that you CAN manage your kidney disease and continue doing all the things you love – traveling, being active, and spending precious time with loved ones.
I am a dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, based in Chicago, IL. I specialize in helping patients with kidney disease & kidney health concerns. Together we'll implement changes to help improve your labs, slow the progression of kidney disease, and ensure you enjoy what you eat! I’ll help you let go of fears and misconceptions about the "renal diet", and help you gain confidence that you CAN manage your kidney disease and continue doing all the things you love – traveling, being active, and spending precious time with loved ones.
(773) 906-4932 View (773) 906-4932
Photo of Sylvia Pomazak, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Sylvia Pomazak
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders/disordered eating for over 10 years. My goal is to help women heal their relationship with food while nourishing their bodies. I help to educate and empower women through their recovery with disordered eating and negative body image. I listen and take into account the whole person in order to create a lifestyle and eating plan that is realistic for their lives.
I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders/disordered eating for over 10 years. My goal is to help women heal their relationship with food while nourishing their bodies. I help to educate and empower women through their recovery with disordered eating and negative body image. I listen and take into account the whole person in order to create a lifestyle and eating plan that is realistic for their lives.
(630) 349-5104 View (630) 349-5104
Photo of Anne Guinane, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Anne Guinane
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655
I was born and raised in Chicago, attended the University of Dayton for undergrad (Go Flyers!) and received my master's degree at Central Michigan University. I currently work at the University of Chicago as the liver transplant dietitian, specializing in all types of liver disease. I also own my own consulting business which has allowed me to broaden my expertise to serve an even wider variety of patient populations. When I am not working, I am spending time with my family- my husband, Kevin, and my two young (crazy) boys, Marty and Charlie, and have one more on the way!
I was born and raised in Chicago, attended the University of Dayton for undergrad (Go Flyers!) and received my master's degree at Central Michigan University. I currently work at the University of Chicago as the liver transplant dietitian, specializing in all types of liver disease. I also own my own consulting business which has allowed me to broaden my expertise to serve an even wider variety of patient populations. When I am not working, I am spending time with my family- my husband, Kevin, and my two young (crazy) boys, Marty and Charlie, and have one more on the way!
(773) 741-9805 View (773) 741-9805
Photo of Abigail Olcott, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Abigail Olcott
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
As a former collegiate athlete, Abby is a registered dietitian passionate about the intersection of nutrition for sports performance and intuitive eating. She completed her bachelor's degree in dietetics at Olivet Nazarene University, her dietetic internship at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, and her master's degree in applied exercise science through Concordia University Chicago. Abby has experience working with youth, collegiate, and professional athletes as well as adult and adolescent eating disorder patients at multiple levels of care.
As a former collegiate athlete, Abby is a registered dietitian passionate about the intersection of nutrition for sports performance and intuitive eating. She completed her bachelor's degree in dietetics at Olivet Nazarene University, her dietetic internship at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, and her master's degree in applied exercise science through Concordia University Chicago. Abby has experience working with youth, collegiate, and professional athletes as well as adult and adolescent eating disorder patients at multiple levels of care.
(630) 349-5549 View (630) 349-5549
Photo of Katherine Hill, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katherine Hill
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
You’ll hear me say this all the time because I truly believe it: all foods fit. There are no “good” and “bad” foods. The only time I’m going to tell you not to eat something is if you’re allergic to it or if it has mold on it. Other than that, all foods fit! Let’s work together so you can give yourself the freedom to enjoy all the ways food is part of everyday life. Whether it’s trying new recipes or pizza night with your favorite person, I’ll be here to guide you every step of the way!
You’ll hear me say this all the time because I truly believe it: all foods fit. There are no “good” and “bad” foods. The only time I’m going to tell you not to eat something is if you’re allergic to it or if it has mold on it. Other than that, all foods fit! Let’s work together so you can give yourself the freedom to enjoy all the ways food is part of everyday life. Whether it’s trying new recipes or pizza night with your favorite person, I’ll be here to guide you every step of the way!
(630) 686-7314 View (630) 686-7314
Photo of Mark LeVine, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Mark LeVine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
(630) 703-0028 View (630) 703-0028
Photo of Lindsay Midura, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Lindsay Midura
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
(312) 766-6802 View (312) 766-6802
Photo of Marla Brodsky, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Marla Brodsky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I am a Registered dietitian and Integrative and Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFNCP). I have over 25 years experience in both academic and clinical dietetics. I have received the "Outstanding Woman Award" from the City of Chicago for my work as well as being named one of the top 10 dietitians in Chicago by Expertise.com. While traditional medicine treats the body as individual separate organs, as a Functional Medicine dietitian, I view the body as one integrated system.
I am a Registered dietitian and Integrative and Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFNCP). I have over 25 years experience in both academic and clinical dietetics. I have received the "Outstanding Woman Award" from the City of Chicago for my work as well as being named one of the top 10 dietitians in Chicago by Expertise.com. While traditional medicine treats the body as individual separate organs, as a Functional Medicine dietitian, I view the body as one integrated system.
(630) 642-6683 View (630) 642-6683
Photo of Brooke Seibert, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Brooke Seibert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 10 years, working mostly in clinical, and community outpatient settings. I have in depth experience with gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and heart health. After becoming a dietitian, I realized making a change is so much deeper than just “will power” and I developed fiery passion to help people navigate change through balance, which then lead me to have a passion for counseling people with disordered eating/eating disorders.
I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 10 years, working mostly in clinical, and community outpatient settings. I have in depth experience with gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and heart health. After becoming a dietitian, I realized making a change is so much deeper than just “will power” and I developed fiery passion to help people navigate change through balance, which then lead me to have a passion for counseling people with disordered eating/eating disorders.
(630) 491-4822 View (630) 491-4822
Photo of Emily Oschmann, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Emily Oschmann
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
Emily is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She completed her education at Mount Mary University and her clinical internship at Roger’s Behavioral Health, both in Wisconsin. Within her first year of being an RDN, Emily presented to over 100 RDNs in her state on the importance of weight inclusive care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading as many books as possible, and being a cat mom to her big cat (Blue) and little cat (Lilly).
Emily is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She completed her education at Mount Mary University and her clinical internship at Roger’s Behavioral Health, both in Wisconsin. Within her first year of being an RDN, Emily presented to over 100 RDNs in her state on the importance of weight inclusive care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading as many books as possible, and being a cat mom to her big cat (Blue) and little cat (Lilly).
(773) 492-6435 View (773) 492-6435
Mindful Eating Nutritionists and Dietitians

What is mindful eating?

Mindful eating is a practice that encourages individuals to be fully present and attentive while eating, focusing on the experience of each meal. It involves paying close attention to hunger, fullness, and satiety cues from the body, as well as being aware of the emotional factors influencing food choices and cravings. Unlike strict dietary rules, mindful eating promotes a nonjudgmental approach, emphasizing the sensory experience of eating and personal food preferences. By fostering greater awareness of how food affects both physical and emotional states, mindful eating helps individuals develop a healthier and more balanced relationship with food.

Who should practice mindful eating?

Mindful eating can benefit anyone looking to improve their relationship with food and enhance their awareness of how food impacts their body and mind. It is especially valuable for individuals experiencing food-related anxiety, such as those with eating disorders or other forms of food-related stress. Additionally, mindful eating can be helpful for those who frequently overeat or struggle to recognize their body's fullness cues. By fostering a greater connection with the sensory experience of eating and promoting awareness of hunger and satiety, mindful eating can aid in reducing overeating and cultivating a more balanced approach to food.

What are the benefits of mindful eating?

Mindful eating offers a range of benefits. For individuals with eating disorders or anxiety-related conditions, it can reduce stress and judgment surrounding food by fostering a non-judgmental and accepting approach to eating. Mindful eating is often taught alongside other self-acceptance practices and holistic nutritional approaches that emphasize overall wellbeing rather than weight or dieting. This combination can be particularly supportive in the recovery from food-related mental health issues. Additionally, mindful eating helps individuals better understand and respond to their body's hunger and fullness cues. While weight loss is not the primary goal of mindful eating, some individuals may experience weight reduction as a secondary benefit, particularly those who tend to overeat or ignore their body's signals. This can lead to improved health outcomes, such as better cardiovascular health.

How can a dietitian help with mindful eating?

A dietitian can help with mindful eating by working with the client to align their nutrition-related goals with mindful approaches. They often begin with a nutritional assessment to establish what the client's current approach to food is, including how food may be causing stress or disturbances in their life. Then, a dietitian will work with the client on how to implement mindful eating approaches, such as pausing before meals to assess hunger or keeping a journal to record how food consumption impacts their thoughts and emotions. Dietitians can also help clients reduce the self-judgment they may have around food and help clients practice self-acceptance and forgiveness as they work toward more mindful eating practices.