No Wellness Wankery
Struggling to lose the last few kilos? Sick of hating your body or trying diets that don’t work? Wondering how to stop thinking about food all the time? The wellness world is full of dodgy ‘health’ advice. Dietitian and nutritionist Lyndi Cohen (aka The Nude Nutritionist) helps you eliminate those pesky diet rules so you can be healthy, without the wellness wankery. In this podcast, Lyndi talks all things nutrition, shares actionable strategies for ditching your weight loss diet, and will inspire you to finally make peace with your body. From intuitive eating principles, self-care strategies, and doing our part in...
126: Finding strength through life's toughest challenges: Briony Benjamin's journey after a life-altering diagnosis
Have you ever faced a sudden life disruption that made you reevaluate everything you thought was important?
In this episode, we sit down with the inspiring Briony Benjamin, author of "Life is Tough, but So Are You," who shares her incredible journey from working at her dream job as an executive producer at Mamma Mia to confronting a life-changing Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis at just 31.
Briony talks about how journaling was a game-changer during her treatment and how it helped her see things differently and how tuning into her body enabled her to appreciate the little t...
125: Small changes, big impact: Dr Gina Cleo on mastering habits for a healthier life
Struggle to turn exercise and healthy eating into a regular habit?
Join us as we chat with Dr. Gina Cleo, a habit change expert who shares her journey from dietitian to habit guru, overcoming personal battles with disordered eating.
We explore the art of creating sustainable habits, from starting small to making bigger changes that feel effortless.
Learn why your brain can handle only a few changes at once and how to smoothly integrate new routines into your daily life.
Whether you want to kickstart an exercise routine or redefine success bey...
124: Overcoming fame's dark side: Kate DeAraugo on addiction, food noise and body image challenges
Feel exhausted for not being able to live up to the society’s standards?
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kate DeAraugo, the 2005 Australian Idol winner, as she opens up about her ongoing journey to find balance and self-compassion in life.
Kate shares her remarkable path from fame to personal challenges. Starting with childhood struggles with disordered eating and battling substance addiction in the public eye, she reveals how motherhood became a turning point, shifting her focus from self-obsession to nurturing.
We also delve into topics like food addiction and medications such as...
123: How to help your partner love their body (even when they don’t)
Body insecurity in relationships is a tricky topic. But an important one.
Nowadays, I truly love my body. But that wasn’t always the case. I used to hate my body. I never felt good enough. I would compare my body constantly.
I met my husband at my heaviest weight. And he loved me (and my body), even when I didn’t. He told me that I was worthy just as I was, without needing to lose weight.
As anyone with body insecurities would know, this meant so much to me. My husband played...
122: Can AI help us treat eating disorders? How to change your social media habits to help your recovery - with lead researcher Dr Gemma Sharp
Ever wondered about the impact of social media on our body image and its role in fuelling eating disorders?
In this episode, we're joined by Gemma Sharp, Associate Professor and leader of Body Image & Eating Disorders Research at Monash University in Melbourne. Gemma shares crucial insights into sub-threshold disordered eating and prevention efforts, essential for gaining a deeper understanding of mental health. We'll explore how these issues have intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic and discuss the promising potential of AI in transforming treatment.
Gemma, a registered clinical psychologist, is widely recognised for her contributions to...
121: How to build unstoppable confidence and live your best carefree life - with Shelly Horton
Want to feel more confident and learn how to deal with online negativity?
This episode is your guide, featuring the incredible Shelley Horton, who shares her confidence-transforming strategy.
Shelley talks about facing harsh online criticism about her appearance, opens up about her journey with body image and how dressing in a way that made her feel good helped her confidence. From overcoming setbacks, like being kept off-air because of her size, to embracing "dopamine dressing," Shelley's story is truly inspiring.
Improving how you present yourself can really change things, especially in business. Shelley gi...
120: Navigating depression, food struggles and anxiety: Julie Goodwin's journey to healing
On this week's episode, Julie Goodwin, the first-ever winner of MasterChef Australia, bravely shares her personal journey through depression, anxiety, addiction, and trauma.
Julie’s candid revelations from her new memoir, "Your Time Starts Now," offer a raw and honest look at her struggles and the healing power of vulnerability.
Learn how writing and promoting her book took Julie on an emotional journey and how she found unexpected solace in connecting with readers who had similar experiences.
Reflecting on growing up in a household where diet culture influenced every meal, Julie discusses the im...
119: The hidden struggles behind fitness competitions: Melissa's story of overcoming extreme dieting and binge eating
Curious about what really happens behind the scenes of fitness competitions?
Join us as we chat with Melissa Bakhurst, who bravely shares her journey through the world of bodybuilding and bikini contests. Initially hitting the gym for mental health, Melissa got caught up in competition pressures, facing extreme weight shifts and food struggles.
Discover the hidden challenges of maintaining a toned body and the mental toll it takes. Melissa shares the unhealthy norms in the competition world, from craving a simple slice of bread after strict diets to the struggles that follow events. She highlights t...
118: Always eating out of boredom? Here are 5 tips on how to stop and become a more mindful eater.
Often find yourself rummaging through the pantry out of sheer boredom?
Let's explore why the kitchen often becomes a pitstop when boredom strikes and how dopamine and habits drive mindless snacking.
We'll discuss practical tips and smart habits like the piggyback method, creating a nourishing pantry, and meal prepping for overcoming emotional eating.
Want to feel more in control around food? Check out my Stop Struggling With Food Guide, currently on sale for 40% off.
You’ll also find 50 of my favourite recipes to get you inspired!
Looking for more support to...
117: Exercise can be enjoyable - at any size. Here's how to find the joy in movement, and overcome the fear of judgement.
Struggle to make exercise feel enjoyable and easy to stick to? Worried you'll gain weight once you start eating intuitively?
On today's episode, we're joined by the wonderful Shreen El Masry, who is a body-positive personal trainer, intuitive eating counsellor and author of the book 'Be You Be Free'.
Shreen shares her expertise on making exercise fun and embracing intuitive eating, overcoming the fear of weight gain and breaking free from diet culture. She also shares her personal story on how shifting from weight-focused goals to pleasure-driven activities completely transformed her life.
Tune in...
116: Dietitian reveals: The worst diets for you
Thinking of starting a diet? Wondering whether it will be a success or just another failed attempt added to the list?
In today's episode, I'm taking a deep dive into popular diets, from keto to calorie-restricted plans, and uncovering some hard truths.
You'll learn why these diets might be more damaging than beneficial, often leading to binge eating and creating an unhealthy relationship with food.
Hang tight, because this is going to be an eye-opener.
Spoiler alert: You didn't fail these diets. They failed you.
If you want...
115: Why am I good all day and lose control in secret? Here's how to stop raiding the pantry at night.
Ever find yourself in a battle with the snack drawer after a day of 'perfect' eating?
It’s like your self-control vanishes the second you're home alone. Leaving you stuck in the frustrating cycle of being disciplined during the day, and over-eating at night.
If this rings a bell- stick around as we're diving into the effective strategies that'll revolutionise your relationship with both your pantry and your plate.
I'll introduce you to the "three packet principle," and offer practical advice on breaking free from the "last supper mentality" - guiding you toward a...
114: Do I have orthorexia or am I just a healthy eater? Recognising the signs before your relationship with food turns into an unhealthy obsession.
Are you always trying to eat perfectly healthy?
As a dietitian, I've watched the pursuit of perfect health become an all-consuming battle for many. Myself included.
In today's episode, we dive into orthorexia nervosa, the thin line between healthy eating and an extreme fixation on so-called 'clean' eating.
We'll explore how the pursuit of eating perfectly can lead to nutritional deficiencies, social isolation, and worsen our mental health. And discuss the importance of support, understanding our relationship with food, and the journey back to enjoying life - beyond what's on our plates.
113: "I want to be skinny!" How to navigate bad body image days
Does "I wish I was skinny. I HATE how my body looks" sound familiar?
Wanting to be skinny is something Lyndi & Natalia know too well.
We live in a world that tells us the most impressive thing a woman can be is thin. It's no wonder we are constantly trying to lose weight. But this isn't actually helping us be healthier, more confident or happier.
When you wake up and hate how you look, your knee-jerk reaction might be to go on a diet or cancel plans. But neither of these things helps in...
112: 5 Lessons on intuitive eating from an ex-dieter - Brooke Palamo's real story
Sick and tired of constantly dieting, only to find that keeping the weight off feels like an impossible task?
This is an all too familiar concept to many people. Including today's special guest, Brooke Palamo. From trying every diet under the sun, battling with the scale and societal pressures, to finding true joy and freedom in food and movement - Brooke shares her inspiring journey.
After having faced many challenges, she didn't just overcome the hurdles; she turned them into stepping stones toward a new way of living.
Imagine learning a new language, where in...
111: Why celebrities are going booze-free and how you can too
Do you drink to feel better, only to end up feeling more anxious and tired?
Alcohol has many consequences on our health. And as of recent years, more people are ditching booze and embracing the sober life. Including big names like Adele, Lucy Hale, Miley Cyrus, Kyle Richards, and Blake Lively.
In this juicy episode, we dive deep into the world of the 'sober curious'. Unveiling the secrets behind why some of your favourite celebs are saying "no thanks" to booze. And spilling the tea on their sober journey - from the health...
110: Help! I can't stop at 2 squares of chocolate
Ever found yourself reaching for a few squares of chocolate, only to feel a wave of guilt as the last square disappears? You're not alone.
In this episode, we unpack the science and psychology behind out-of-control chocolate eating habits. And most importantly, how we can navigate around the "I have to finish all of this now" thinking trap.
It's not just about saying no or yes to chocolate. It's about understanding WHY we crave it and HOW we can enjoy it mindfully. All while learning to appreciate the pure pleasure of eating the chocolate you ac...
109: Why can't I stop overeating at night? I'm worried about my weight
Ever wondered why you can't stop eating at night?
Can you relate to the feeling of late-evening pantry raids after a not-so-peachy day. You might eat a biscuit, then five minutes later a slice of cheese. Followed by a handful of grapes… and half a Mars bar. Then go back to the biscuits for (probably) 6 more.
…Trying to fill that hole, that gap, that needed to be fed.
If you are nodding along, thinking, "Mmm-Hmm, this is me," just know you're not alone. I’ve been there, done that, plenty of times myself.
T...
108: Nat's Real Story "I never thought I was thin enough"
"You're constantly striving for more, you want to be thinner, you want to look better. And it's just like this toxic path that never really ends and it never gets you anywhere. I should have asked for help..."
On this week's episode I am joined by real story guest Natalia Szala. And this week's is a bit of a special one, as Nat is also my colleague and friend.
When we get together to film we'll often hash back to all of our previous dieting years, sometimes having those "holy moly, you did that too!" m...
107: What is causing my bloating? Is it IBS? Featuring Chloe McLeod
Ever been stuck wondering where bloating ends, IBS begins, and your body's hunger signals fit in?
This week I'm bringing back the expertise and my go-to gal for all things gut health Chloe McLeod @chloe_mcleod_dietitian who is the founder of dietitian Telehealth services @verdenutritionco (oh-so convenient).
As we unravel the complexities of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which affects around 20% of Australians, Chloe decodes the sneaky signs of nutritional inadequacy that could be mistaken for IBS.
Together, we examine the importance of recognising menstrual irregularities, exercise performance, and resilience to...
106: Do I need to fear carbs?
Have you ever found yourself in a carb conundrum.. Staring down a plate of pasta while your diet plan screams "NO"? I, Lyndi Cohen, certainly have. And I'm ready to spill the beans on the love-hate relationship we have with carbohydrates.
Listen up, as this week's episode we dive head-first into the murky waters of diet culture, starting with my own story involving a Hens party, an Italian restaurant and my low-carb misadventures. Not a match-made-in-heaven you could say!
Let me take you on a journey through the ups and downs of my diet obsession and...
105: Featuring Sports Dietitian Chloe McLeod: What's the best way to eat to support my workouts?
Have you ever wondered what's the key to a turbo-charged workout that leaves you feeling energised? Well listen up!
In this episode we'll uncover the truth with advanced sports Dietitian Chloe McLeod, who shares why fuelling your body with the right balance of carbs and protein can set your fitness up for success. And who doesn't want that!
Here's the thing. Forget about hitting the gym on an empty stomach—Chloe debunks the myths of low-carb diets and fasting exercises, and teaches us how to unlock the power of nutrition in your workout routine. From Runni...
104: Should I avoid dairy to lose weight?
Do you avoid dairy, believing it to cause breakouts, weight gain, hormone problems, fatigue?
Dairy has so many myths surrounding it - from being bad for your heart health, to causing weight gain or preventing weight loss. Yet most of this information is untrue, or not backed by any research or science.
In this episode, we cover:
Which of the information about dairy is FALSEThe health benefits of eating dairyMy recommendations for how often, and what types of dairy you should eatWhether you should only eat low-fat dairy productsThe advantages...103: Being kind to yourself and other health ‘ins’ no one is talking about
Struggle to be kind and more gentle with yourself?
Last year, my goal was to be more kind with myself, find ease in adding healthy habits that don't feel so overwhelming and not beat myself up for not eating perfectly healthy all the time.
There's a lot I learned along the way. And in this episode, I share my own list of health-related ins and outs… which might surprise you!
If you want to join in for my F*ck Diets challenge kicking off February 5th, opt in for FREE when y...
102: F*ck Diets. Want to lose weight? Try these 10 habits instead.
Diets have consequences… A lot of consequences. They slow your metabolism, increase your cravings and hunger levels, make it near impossible for you to keep the weight off in the long term.
In this episode, we cover:
Why diets don’t help you lose weight in the long-termThe downsides of dieting, and why you should stop trying new diets todayWhat you can learn from people who are at their body’s “happy weight”The consequences of having a scarcity mindset around foodHow to prevent overeating, and feel more satisfied after your mealsHow d...101: The REAL reason you aren't sticking to your health goals
Have your New Year’s resolutions already crumbled like last year's forgotten holiday cookies? We're tearing up the rulebook on diet culture and redefining success with sustainable habits that stick. This episode is not about wallowing in self-defeat but about empowering you with strategies for long-term health and happiness. Join us as we unpack the toxic 'all or nothing' mindset and introduce you to a more forgiving approach to diet and lifestyle that celebrates small victories and incremental progress.
We're not just talking about the problem—we're giving you the solutions. Dive into our conversation where we explo...
100: Which is the BEST milk to drink? Full fat, A2, soy, almond?
Milk and milk alternatives are one of those food products that are surrounded by myths and false health claims. Is milk healthy? Does it make you bloated? Should you be choosing a plant-based alternative?
I’m answering all your questions about milk, and diving into the research around which is the best option for you and your body.
We cover:
The benefits of milk for your gut health, digestion, immune function, mood and moreWhy I think milk is an important part of your diet, and the many nutrients it containsWhat sets a2 Milk® apart from...99: My 3 biggest health regrets (and how you can avoid them)
As a recovered binge eater and fad dieter, I've made many mistakes when it comes to my health. And in celebration of my birthday today, I'm reflecting on the decisions I regret the most - and sharing the lessons I've learned along the way, so you don't make the same mistakes I did!
Get my FREE toolkit for building a healthy body image here.
And, if you want in on our F*ck Diets challenge kicking off February 5th, opt in for FREE when you sign up for...
98: Do THIS to avoid passing down poor body image to your kids
This is a snippet of our full conversation - you can listen to the entire episode here.
We covered:
How diet culture affects boys, as well as women and girlsOur own childhoods and upbringings, and how these shaped our relationships with food and our bodiesThings we want to change when raising our own children to prevent them being negatively affected by diet cultureHow to get your kids involved in the kitchenHow to teach your children to explore and advocate for their own food choices and preferencesHelping your children develop a healthy relationship with their body, as...97: The worst ways parents pass on poor body image - and how to avoid them
In this episode, we discuss:
How diet culture affects boys, as well as women and girlsOur own childhoods and upbringings, and how these shaped our relationships with food and our bodiesThings we want to change when raising our own children to prevent them being negatively affected by diet cultureHow to get your kids involved in the kitchenHow to teach your children to explore and advocate for their own food choices and preferencesHelping your children develop a healthy relationship with their body, as well as with foodHow to help your kids build trust around food, and learn to tune...96: Intuitive eating with PCOS? Do I cut dairy, gluten and carbs?
Today we have Sam Abbott on the podcast, a PCOS Nutritionist who has built a reputation for her fresh, non-diet approach to nutrition. This episode is a goldmine of information for anyone struggling with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that affects a significant number of women globally. Together, we unravel the mystery surrounding this condition as Sam walks us through the symptoms, diagnosis, and the importance of focusing on health metrics beyond the number on the scales. We shed light on the research around weight and PCOS, and reveal some surprising findings.
In the second...
95: "I can't stop eating even though I'm full" Non-diet tricks to leave food on your plate
Do you find yourself eating beyond the point of fullness, leaving you feeling bloated and heavy?
I've been there. I know the feeling of needing to eat everything on your plate, or being unsure when you'll allow yourself to eat next - which often results in overeating or bingeing to the point of discomfort.
Sometimes, you'll eat more than you planned - and that's okay! If you struggle with feeling guilty when this happens, go back and revisit episode 54 here: What to do after a binge. Beating yourself up about what y...
94: Feel the urge to diet? Listen to this.
I recently went on a magical family holiday to New Zealand. It was full of good food, hikes and wholesomeness.
But one night, I was scrolling through the photos of the day and I noticed myself not loving what I was seeing.
I wasn't focusing on the incredible memories.
I was focusing on the cellulite, on my body and on all my insecurities.
This isn't a new scenario for me. And it probably isn't for you.
But what I did next is what changed the game. One hour later...
93: Ditch toxic resolutions & set goals for lasting change
I once fell into the trap of setting wildly ambitious New Year's resolutions that fizzled out before February even whispered hello. It's a familiar story, isn't it?
Contrary to popular belief, New Year’s resolutions are not just glorified ‘to do’ items for the first week of January.
The New Year can actually be a magical opportunity for small mental shifts that can bring about meaningful change.
Each year, around 69% of Aussies make at least one New Year’s Resolution but only around a quarter of us actually stick to our good int...
92: How to stop sabotaging your health + your weight
Have you ever felt like there's something holding you back from achieving your health and wellness goals?
In this episode we are looking at some of the habits you include in your life. And more importantly... are they still serving you?
Numerous ‘healthy habits’ have been widely advocated for years. But how healthy are they really?
Perhaps you jump on the scales everyday? Maybe your mum won't stop commenting about your weight? Or you focus on other's peoples bodies or food intake?
Try to eat clean 100% of the time? Or scroll on yo...
91: Raising kids who like themselves
As parents we want to do the best by our kids. But they don't come with a manual.
I've spoken before about how to teach kids to eat healthily, but what about even more broadly speaking. We want kids who like themselves.
So what's the secret to raising empowered, confident children who like themselves?
Kasey Edwards and her husband Dr Christopher Scanlon have written two books on EXACTLY this - Raising Girls Who Like Themselves and Bringing Up Boys Who Like Themselves.
This episode is full of practical tips, strategies and adv...
90: How to not gain weight over the holiday season
During the holiday season, healthy eating can feel tough.
It doesn’t take long before the non-stop eating and drinking at the Christmas parties and BBQs begins to feel overwhelming… and the thoughts about how to avoid holiday weight gain this season are starting to creep in.
But are you ready to enjoy this special time of the year with your loved ones? Leaving the food guilt and weight worries behind?
Even just adopting one of these 10 habits can help you feel healthier and happier!
Ready to flip the narrative? Let's do i...
89: How to talk to someone with an eating disorder
At just 12 years of age, Jaimee Krawitz struggled with an eating disorder and had no idea how to communicate how she was feeling to her friends and family. It's a tricky conversation for adults, let alone a child!
Jaimee is now a counsellor who has dedicated her work to transforming the dialogue around eating disorders.
Because what should you say to someone with an eating disorder? What language is helpful?
It is so important we take the time to find out, rather than saying nothing at all and adding loneliness to an already i...
88: Weight loss and Ozempic. What you NEED to know. Worth it or too risky?
Have you been wondering about weight loss drugs? Have you read stories of celebrity weight loss and caught yourself thinking is ozempic actually worth it?
Or better still...what is ozempic?
Ozempic, a medication initially concocted for blood glucose control but remarketed for weight loss due to its surprising effect. This drug, is injected weekly and works by mimicking the GLP1 hormone and suppressing your appetite.
So wait, what's the catch? Oh, there are some not-so-fun side effects...
This episode is not a place where I will be shaming anyone who...
87: I quit dieting, but I’m gaining weight. (Part 2)
After I recorded last weeks episode, I found myself texting Jenna. I realised we had so much more to say. Because let's face it, intuitive eating and weight gain is a murky topic.
And we do not want to lose people back to diet land!
If you have no idea what I'm talking about and you haven't listened to part 1, I highly recommend starting there to get the full context - head back to episode 86.
Ever wondered how to make choices that honor your body and health without spiraling into restrictive...
