In this episode, Lou interviews Olivia Bell MacDonald, a nutritionist who helps women break free from yo-yo dieting. Olivia emphasizes the importance of habit development, behavior change, self-compassion, and life after the diet in her coaching approach. She focuses on educating women to understand their nutritional needs and improve their relationship with food and body image. Olivia discourages labeling foods as "good" or "bad" and promotes mindful eating practices. She shares insights on why she does not recommend the keto diet unless for medical reasons and advocates for a balanced and inclusive approach to food choices. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

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  Mindful eating is essential for enjoying food, managing portion sizes, and reducing snacking. It involves being present with your food, eating distraction-free, and focusing on physical cues.

  
  


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  Avoid labeling foods as "good" or "bad" and instead practice food neutrality. All foods can have a place in your diet without guilt or restriction.

  
  


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  Self-compassion and acceptance are crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship with food and body image. Being kind to yourself and accepting imperfections can lead to better long-term results.

  
  


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  Avoid using the term "cheat meals" as it promotes negative associations with food. Instead, focus on including all foods in moderation and enjoying them mindfully.

  
  


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  Keto diet may be suitable for medical reasons like epilepsy but is not recommended for general weight loss or health goals. Emphasize a balanced approach to eating that includes a variety of foods.

  
  

BEST MOMENTS

"I'm a big advocate that all food can hold a place in your diet. There is no one good food and there is no one bad food."

"I always say that a good coach, you should only have to have a good coach for X number of weeks, number of months."

"Food is for most of us, how we build connections with other people, how we show love, how we receive love."

"Most people demonize social events because they think that's what's ruining their progress. But very often it's someone's response to those occasions, which is where self-compassion and acceptance comes in."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://linktr.ee/theexerciseengineer
lou@theexerciseengineer.com

HOST BIO

Lou's personal journey with body confidence and food struggles began at the age of 15, where overeating and guilt around food consumed her. But everything changed during the lockdown in March 2020. Determined to regain control, Lou immersed herself in research, found joy in working out in her garden, and started tracking her nutrition and steps. Surprisingly, she lost a stone in less than three months and discovered a newfound love for fitness.

Fueling her passion, Lou pursued personal training qualifications and launched her Instagram page in September 2020. After months of building a solid foundation, branding, and gaining relevant expertise, she started helping others achieve what once felt impossible—losing fat, feeling empowered, and loving the journey without restrictions. With numerous success stories, digital products, and a thriving membership program called Train with Lou, Lou now coaches, teaches, and learns about food, exercise, and mindset.