September is Mental Health Awareness Month, today we’re diving into something that affects way more people than you might realize—our relationship with food.

Now, if you love food like I do but also care about your health and fitness, you’ve probably felt this at some point: Am I enjoying this too much? Am I eating too much? Too little? Should I be more disciplined?

I’ve been on both sides of this fence—from my life as a chef celebrating every flavor to my time training for a bikini competition where food became numbers and rules.

Today, I want to share my story, give you some stats that will make you pause, and—most importantly—show you how you can find a beautiful balance between loving food, reaching your goals, and protecting your mental health.

This is an episode you'll want to refer back to and SHARE with the people you love.  Let's dig in.

00:00 Introduction to Food Guilt and Mental Health

01:03 Chef Mareya's Personal Journey with Food

02:24 From Celebrating Food to Food as a Prison

03:40 The Extremes of Bodybuilding and Exhaustion

07:42 Statistics on Orthorexia and Disordered Eating

10:09 The Role of Brain Health in Food Choices

12:35 The Five Pillars of the Fit Foodie Philosophy

13:18 Step 1: Prioritizing Protein in Your Diet

16:06 Step 2: Add Nutritious Foods, Don't Restrict

17:23 Explaining the 80/20 and 90/10 Rules

19:15 Step 3: Using Spices and Flavor for Joy

21:19 Step 4: Plan Treats, Don't Punish Yourself

23:21 Step 5: Move for Joy, Not for Punishment

24:30 This Week's Mini Challenge: Savor a Meal

27:06 Five Steps to Build a Healthier Relationship with Food

34:38 Final Encouragement: Choose Gratitude and Balance