Does Mindful Eating ignore nutritional science?

When you are first learning about an "undieting" approach to food and Mindful Eating, a common struggle I see with clients is worrying about how "health" fits in.

Whether it is because you have food intolerances, ongoing health issues, or other dietary needs, it may feel like this can stand in the way of giving yourself unconditional permission to eat… because of the fear that it may may your health worse.

So, let's talk about it... Does Mindful Eating ignore nutritional science? 

The short answer: Yes. 

But also... no.

Let me explain. 

Mindful eating does incorporate science and nutritional information through what is termed “Gentle Nutrition”. Gentle nutrition is about understanding your body’s needs and the different nutritional benefits foods may provide, with a lens focused on self-care and love for your body. It is about determining which foods can be added to your diet and is a constantly evolving process of self-discovery. It is not about creating food rules or labels around which food is “good” or “bad”. It is simply another tool that you can use to understand your body’s needs and how to feel your best.

However, gentle nutrition can end up turning into a new set of food rules, which is why when you are first starting out with a Mindful Eating approach, the priority is focusing on the main principles of ditching the diet mentality and committing to “breaking-up” with your food rules in order to heal your relationship with food.

Stepping out of diet culture, food shame, and guilt is a process of reconnecting with your body. Learning how to turn inward to understand how your body communicates with you and what you need in order to feel your best.

So…yes: in the beginning, it is important to give yourself permission to ignore nutritional science and worrying about what you "should" eat. This step is crucial in order to clear out the noise to be able to listen to your body.

Once that connection is stronger, you will feel ready to incorporate or explore aspects of nutritional science based on your own judgement as to what works and feels good in your body (and not stress out about the rest!)⁠

There is room for nutritional science in a Mindful Eating approach to food, but first it is important to learn how to de-weaponize "health" so it doesn't come with more food shame, guilt and disordered eating.

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So let me know: where are you at when it comes to a Mindful Eating approach? Do you have questions? Feel free to leave a comment below!

And - if you want to know more about a Mindful Eating approach, make sure to check out my 14 Days to Food Freedom online course.