Food for Thought

Halloween can be a fun and festive time—but for many, it also brings up anxiety around food, body image, and the pressure to “stay on track.” In this episode, a registered dietitian and a licensed psychotherapist explore how to navigate the Halloween season with more peace, flexibility, and self-compassion. We’ll dive into: 🍬 How to handle the abundance of candy without guilt 🧠 The psychological roots of food-related anxiety during the holidays 👻 Supporting kids in developing a healthy relationship with treats 💬 Strategies for coping with body image triggers in costume-centric events ❤️‍🩹 Reframing Halloween through an intuitive eating and mental health lens Whether you're recovering from disordered eating, parenting through Halloween, or simply trying to have a less stressful holiday, this conversation offers grounded, practical support.

After a 5-month break, Food for Thought is back in your ears! In this catch-up episode, Alexia and Alixis reunite to share what’s been going on behind the scenes—life changes, unexpected detours, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way. We’re pulling back the curtain on why we stepped away, what’s been happening in our world, and what you can expect from the podcast moving forward. Spoiler: we’ve missed you. Whether you’re a longtime listener or just tuning in, this is the perfect reset to jump back in with us.

Is it really just about "willpower"? Or have we all been fed a myth that's keeping us stuck, frustrated, and blaming ourselves? In this episode, we dive deep into the truth behind the willpower narrative and how diet culture has weaponized it to keep us chasing unrealistic ideals. You'll learn: -Why "lack of willpower" isn't the reason diets fail -How your biology and environment play a bigger role than you think -The psychological traps diet culture uses to keep you hooked -How to reclaim your relationship with food and body without shame or guilt Whether you're tired of starting over every Monday or just want to stop feeling like a failure, this conversation will give you the freedom and clarity you've been craving. Tune in for a powerful mindset shift—and find out what diet culture really doesn't want you to know.

In this episode, we dive into the real-life challenges of taking care of your mind and body—without breaking the bank. From affordable grocery tips and simple meal planning hacks to managing stress and emotional eating during tight times, this conversation is full of practical, compassionate advice. Whether you’re a student, supporting a family, or just trying to stretch your dollars, this episode will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and nourished—inside and out.

In this heartfelt and informative episode, Alexia and Alixis sit down to explore the deep connection between nutrition and mental health during pregnancy and the postpartum period. From navigating cravings and combating fatigue to addressing anxiety, mood changes, and postpartum depression, they share practical insights and compassionate guidance for new and expecting moms. Whether you’re preparing for birth, in the thick of postpartum, or supporting someone on this journey, this conversation offers empowering tools to help nurture both body and mind.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Jordan Davidson, a passionate advocate for men’s health, as he shares his personal journey navigating the challenges of fatherhood, receiving an ADHD diagnosis, and embracing intuitive eating. Jordan opens up about the pivotal moments in his life, offering a candid look at the emotional and physical transitions that come with becoming a father and how ADHD shaped his approach to health and wellness. He also dives deep into his experience with intuitive eating—how it has helped him reclaim his relationship with food, improve mental clarity, and better manage stress. Whether you're a parent, dealing with ADHD, or simply interested in learning more about the holistic approach to wellness, this conversation offers valuable insights into living a balanced and fulfilling life. Tune in for practical advice, authentic stories, and a fresh perspective on men’s health.

In this insightful episode, we dive into the world of food cravings with expert perspectives from both a psychotherapist and a dietitian. Join us as we explore the psychological and emotional triggers behind those intense cravings, how stress, mood, and past experiences can influence our food choices, and practical strategies for understanding and managing them. Alixis offers evidence-based advice on balancing nutrition to reduce unhealthy cravings, while Alexia provides tips on emotional regulation and self-awareness to break the cycle. Whether you're trying to improve your relationship with food or simply curious about the mind-body connection, this conversation is packed with valuable insights and practical tips! https://www.hubermanlab.com/episode/using-cortisol-and-adrenaline-to-boost-our-energy-and-immune-system

In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Wallis, an eco-therapist and psychotherapist, to explore the powerful connection between nature and mental health. As we delve into the practice of eco-therapy, Lauren shares insights on how immersing ourselves in nature can heal emotional wounds, reduce stress, and foster a deeper sense of belonging. From grounding techniques to understanding our intrinsic bond with the environment, this conversation offers practical tips and profound wisdom on how to cultivate mental well-being through nature. Tune in to discover how eco-therapy can be a transformative path to healing for the mind.  Find Lauren on Instagram @laurenwallistherapy or laurenwallis.ca Lauren's Recommended Resources: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer Grounded: How Connection with Nature can Improve our Mental and Physical Wellbeing by Ruth Allen A Wild Love for the World: Joanna Macy and the Work of our Time by Joanna Macy and Stephanie Kaza  Ecotherapy: Healing with Nature in Mind by Craig Chalquist Ecopsychology: Restoring the Earth/Healing the Mind by Lester Brown The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes us Happier, Healthier and More Creative by Florence Williams Nature and the Human Soul: Cultivating Wholeness and Community in a Fragmented World by Bill Plotkin

In this insightful episode, we dive into the topic of adrenal fatigue. We’ll explore the science behind adrenal function, why the concept of "adrenal fatigue" can be controversial, and how stress, lifestyle, and diet all play a role in how our bodies respond to chronic pressure. Alixis sheds light on how nutrition can support adrenal health, debunking popular myths about supplements, restrictive diets, and the importance of balanced eating for managing stress. Meanwhile, Alexia offers an understanding of the emotional and psychological components, discussing how chronic stress can impact mental health and how therapy can complement physical health interventions. Whether you're dealing with burnout, exhaustion, or just want to understand more about how your body and mind interact under stress, this episode is packed with practical advice, evidence-based insights, and compassionate approaches to holistic healing. Tune in to learn how to support your body and mind with strategies that go beyond the surface. Listen now to gain a deeper understanding and practical tips for fostering balance in your life! “Clinical perspective on stress, cortisol and adrenal fatigue Author links open overlay panel - James L. Wilson DC, ND, PhD” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212962614000054

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the connection between mental health and nutrition throughout the menstrual cycle. Join a registered dietitian, Alixis, and a psychotherapist, Alexia, as they share expert tips on how to navigate each phase of your cycle. From managing mood swings and stress to fueling your body with the right nutrients, we will provide practical advice for supporting your mental well-being and physical health during each stage. Whether you're trying to balance energy levels, ease PMS symptoms, or understand your body's nutritional needs, this episode will give you the tools to thrive at every phase. Tune in for an insightful conversation that empowers you to nurture both your mind and body!

As cold and flu season approaches, it's important to arm yourself with knowledge on how to protect your immune system. In this episode, hosts psychotherapist, Alexia, and a registered dietitian, Alixis, explore strategies for staying healthy. From stress management and mental wellness to nutrition and lifestyle habits, our experts share practical tips and evidence-backed advice on how to support your body's natural defenses. Tune in to discover how to enhance your immunity and stay resilient during the season of sniffles and coughs!

In this episode, we dive into the powerful journey of running from a personal perspective. Alexia and Alixis share their experiences with running —how they started, what keeps them going, and the challenges they’ve overcome along the way. Alongside these personal stories, we explore the vital role of pre- and post-run nutrition in optimizing performance and recovery. From fueling up before hitting the pavement to recharging after a long run, learn how what you eat can make a huge impact. We also take a closer look at how running can be a transformative tool for mental health, helping to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode offers insights to inspire, motivate, and help you make the most out of your running routine.

In this inspiring episode, we chat with Dr. Enrico Wensing, a dentist whose personal wellness journey has transformed the way he approaches both oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Wensing opens up about his path to discovering the deep connection between dental care and personal health, sharing how his own lifestyle choices have shaped his practice and daily routine. From overcoming personal health challenges to adopting a holistic approach to dentistry, Dr. Wensing offers insight into how prioritizing wellness can lead to a healthier smile—and a happier life. A very proud father of Alexia, Dr. Wensing also reflects on how his family plays a pivotal role in his health journey. Dr. Wensing brings an impressive academic background, having earned his DDS and MSc in Genetics from the University of Toronto (1991), and later completing his PhD in Educational Psychology (2012) from a graduate school in California. From 2012 to 2017, he was a US National Science Foundation Research Scholar in Identity for Global Sustainability through education, a role that highlights his commitment to shaping the future of wellness through education. If you're interested in hearing about the powerful intersection of self-care, dental health, and the importance of maintaining balance in your life, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to prioritize your health in ways you may never have considered before! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you loved the episode!

In this episode, a registered dietitian and registered psychotherapist explore the science of alcohol metabolism and its effects on mental health. Learn how alcohol is processed in the body, how it impacts brain chemistry, and its influence on mood and anxiety. With expert insights from both nutrition and mental health perspectives, this conversation provides practical advice on making informed choices and managing alcohol's impact on well-being. Tune in for essential tips on balancing alcohol and mental health.

In this episode, registered dietitian Alixis and registered psychotherapist Alexia explore the predicted health trends for 2025, including gut health, sleep divorce, AI therapy, and the ongoing love for sourdough. They break down what’s worth keeping in your wellness routine and what trends might be better left behind as we move into the new year. Tune in for expert insights on which health practices are here to stay and which ones may just be fleeting fads. Probioticchart.ca Lee, I-M et al. (2019). Association of Step Volume and Intensity With All-Cause Mortality in Older Women https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31141585/

In this episode, we sit down with our incredible cohost, Alixis, to dive into her inspiring journey toward becoming a Registered Dietitian. From juggling study sessions to managing life as a busy mom, Alixis shares how she balances her passion for nutrition with the challenges and rewards of motherhood. But that's not all—she also opens up about her love for running and how she’s managed to conquer multiple half marathons while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Tune in as Alixis offers valuable insights on: - Her path to becoming a Registered Dietitian and the challenges she faced along the way - The highs and lows of balancing career, motherhood, and self-care - Tips for staying motivated in both fitness and nutrition goals - How running has become a form of self-care and empowerment for her Whether you're a fellow mom, aspiring dietitian, or runner, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for finding your balance and pursuing your passions.

In this episode, I sit down with my incredible co-host, Alexia, to dive deep into her unique life experiences, personal passions, and the hobbies that light up her world. From childhood memories to the moments that shaped their journey, we explore the things that inspire and energize her. She has always had an affinity for nature and wellness, she played a variety of sports growing up, including basketball, volleyball, track and field, gymnastics, and playing as striker on her highschool soccer team for all 4 years and considered pursuing it competitively at a varsity level. She also seriously considered being a lawyer after her undergrad! Having lived in Norway off and on for 4 years before moving to Western Canada, she loves an adventure, which co-exists with clarifying her values and what is most meaningful to her - and this being her ultimate compass. Her deep passion to tap into authenticity, to uplift, and to live our most values-aligned lives ultimately drove her to become a registered psychotherapist. Alexia is a big believer in the idea that - what we speak with our words, we believe in our hearts. Whether it's the hobbies that provide an escape, the passions that fuel her creativity, or the lessons learned along the way, this episode is an authentic and insightful conversation about the little things that make life truly fulfilling. Tune in for a candid chat full of laughter, stories, and inspiration!

As the New Year approaches, many of us are thinking about resolutions—especially when it comes to wellness. But how do we set goals that aren't rooted in shame or pressure, but rather in self-compassion and long-term sustainability? In this episode, we explore how to approach New Year’s resolutions in a way that focuses on positive growth, realistic expectations, and building habits that support your overall well-being. We talk about the importance of setting intentions that align with your values, how to break down big goals into actionable steps, and why embracing flexibility and self-kindness is key to lasting change. Whether you're aiming to move more, eat better, manage stress, or improve your mental health, we share strategies for making resolutions that stick—and feel good while you’re at it! Join us for a refreshing perspective on wellness goals, and walk away with the tools you need to set yourself up for success in the New Year—without the guilt or overwhelm. Let’s kick off 2025 with intention, balance, and a mindset that supports your best self.

As the holiday season kicks into full swing, we're diving into the complex relationship between food and body image. For many, the holidays are a time of indulgence, celebration, and connection, but they can also bring up feelings of guilt, stress, and self-doubt around food and how we look. In this episode, we discuss how societal pressures, family dynamics, and cultural expectations can impact the way we view ourselves and our relationship with food during the most festive time of the year. We share personal stories, offer practical tips for cultivating a healthier mindset, and explore how we can embrace both nourishment and self-compassion, even when surrounded by holiday treats and busy schedules. Whether you're navigating the challenges of holiday weight talk or trying to enjoy a meal without guilt, this conversation is all about reclaiming joy in the food you eat and the body you're in. Tune in for real talk, supportive advice, and a reminder that you deserve to enjoy the season—no matter what your plate (or your body) looks like!

Welcome to the very first episode of *Food for Thought*—the podcast where curiosity meets conversation. I'm [Your Name], and in this inaugural episode, I’ll be introducing you to what this podcast is all about. Each week, we’ll dive into thought-provoking topics that span across culture, society, innovation, philosophy, and so much more. Whether it’s unpacking the latest in science, exploring timeless ideas, or engaging with passionate thinkers from all walks of life, this podcast is here to fuel your intellectual appetite and spark new ways of thinking. In today’s episode, I’ll share the vision for *Food for Thought*—what inspires it, the kinds of guests and discussions you can expect, and how we’ll be exploring the world through the lens of fresh perspectives. Whether you’re looking to expand your worldview or simply enjoy an engaging conversation, *Food for Thought* will serve as a nourishing source of reflection and discovery. So, grab your headphones, and let’s embark on a journey where ideas are the main course. The future of this podcast is as exciting as the conversations we’ll be having, and I’m thrilled to have you along for the ride. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we’ll challenge conventional wisdom, question the status quo, and share insights that’ll leave you thinking long after the episode ends. Welcome to *Food for Thought*—let’s get started!