Will intuitive eating make me gain weight?

Not necessarily — you might gain weight, lose weight, or stay the same. If you've been chronically under-eating, overeating, or stressed around food, you likely aren't at your body's natural weight yet. Intuitive eating puts weight loss on the back burner so you can reconnect with your body and find food freedom, regardless of what the scale says.

What's the difference between intuitive eating and mindful eating?

Mindful eating is one piece that fits inside intuitive eating. Mindful eating is about intentionally paying attention to your food and eating experience, while intuitive eating is the full framework — all 10 principles — that mindful eating supports.

Can I practice intuitive eating if I have a medical condition, like diabetes or celiac disease?

Yes. If you're managing a condition like diabetes, hypothyroidism, or celiac disease, working with a Registered Dietitian who practices from an intuitive eating or Health at Every Size lens can help you honor medical nutrition needs without it feeling restrictive or stressful.

Is intuitive eating just "eat whatever you want"?

No — that's one of the biggest myths. Intuitive eating is a nuanced, 10-principle framework that includes honoring hunger and fullness, coping with emotions, and gentle nutrition. It's not fasting, keto, counting macros, or a weight-loss plan, and you can't practice just one or two principles and call it intuitive eating.

Who created intuitive eating, and is it evidence-based?

Intuitive eating was developed in the 1990s by Registered Dietitians Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch. It's supported by more than 275 studies showing links to lower disordered eating, lower blood pressure, and higher self-esteem and body appreciation, among other outcomes.

Do I need a nutritionist or dietitian to start intuitive eating?

You can start on your own with the book, workbook, or podcast resources — but if you want personalized support, look for a Registered Dietitian who is also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Not everyone using the title 'nutritionist' is a licensed dietitian, so credentials matter here.

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Connecting to Your Hunger 101

Understanding and connecting to your hunger can be tricky after years of dieting and letting society shape our definition of health. But, it IS possible to get back in touch with your hunger cues and what your body truly needs.

Nutrition, MindKatie HakeMay 21, 2021intuitive eating, nutrition advice, nutrition, hunger, hunger cues, women health, womens health, eating, food, food blog, food freedom, nondietComment

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