Can I Learn to Eat Intuitively if I Still Want to Lose Weight?

Eating should be a source of enjoyment, not a constant stressor. Unfortunately, for many people, food can feel like the enemy. There's a feeling that in order to lose weight, we need to ignore hunger or body cues. Is this true? In this post, we explore this misconception and show you how to embrace intuitive eating even while still desiring weight loss.

What is Intuitive Eating?

Intuitive eating focuses on tuning into your body's hunger and fullness signals and respecting its wishes when making food choices. It encourages a healthier relationship with food, freeing you from a cycle of dieting that often leads to guilt and restriction.

This approach is not about ignoring nutritional knowledge or "eating whatever you want". Instead, it integrates mindful awareness with healthy eating habits and joyful movement, allowing you to nourish your body while respecting its needs.

The Conflict Between Weight Loss and Intuitive Eating

For decades, diet culture has sent a strong message: to lose weight, you must eat less and exercise more. This mindset often creates restrictive eating patterns and a harmful relationship with food. As a result, many equate intuitive eating with giving up on weight loss and just eating whatever you want.

However, while intuitive eating shouldn't be used as a method to lose weight, it can still be beneficial to someone who desires weight loss. By paying attention to hunger signals and cravings, you can adopt a more balanced way of eating that avoids feelings of deprivation. Research shows that people who practice intuitive eating are less likely to engage in binge eating, have anxiety surrounding food, and have improved health outcomes compared with chronic dieters!

What Does it Look Like to Eat Intuitively?

Learning to listen to your body is key to intuitive eating. Here’s a glimpse into what it entails:

1. Letting Go of Dieting Mentality (say goodbye to "eat less & move more" 😵‍💫)

2. Respecting Hunger and Fullness Cues

3. Incorporating Mindful Eating Practices

4. Embracing Flexibility in Eating Behaviors and Routine

5. Set Intentions as Goals Instead of Restrictions

6. Include Foods That are Both Physically and Emotionally Satisfying

7. Address Emotional Eating Behaviors

8. Find Movement That You Enjoy

What If I Still Want to Lose Weight?

Anyone can benefit from Intuitive Eating, even if you desire weight loss! Intuitive Eating is NOT a diet and shouldn't be used to lose weight, however, weight loss, maintenance or weight gain can all occur with Intuitive Eating depending on how your current eating behaviors are affecting your body. By improving your relationship with food and listening to your body, healthy behaviors are easier to maintain because your body feels safe and empowered instead of restricted.

Does any of this resonate with you? If so, let's get started! Working with a Registered Dietitian helps with understanding what is best for you body and it's specific needs. Whatever your goals are, we can help. Schedule a Discovery Call to learn more about how working with a dietitian can benefit you!