In this episode of the Unfiltered Wellness Podcast, hosts Amanda Mittman and Mackenzie Woolwich, both weight-inclusive registered dietitians, are joined by fellow dietitian Michaela Putala from California. The trio discusses the concept of the 'messy middle' in intuitive eating—a challenging phase where individuals transition from dieting to trusting their body’s hunger signals. Michaela shares her expertise and personal experiences in dealing with this messy middle, highlighting the importance of breaking food rules and the necessity of enduring the discomfort to heal. They also touch on the topic of 'food noise,' its relation to diet culture, and the controversial use of weight loss medications like GLP-1. Tips for managing 'food noise' and reconnecting with intuitive eating are shared, alongside discussions on cravings, letting go of food guilt, and living a value-driven life. Tune in for an evidence-based conversation aimed at redefining wellness and ditching diet culture.

00:00 Welcome to the Unfiltered Wellness Podcast

01:09 Introducing Our Special Guest: Michaela Putala

02:19 Understanding the Messy Middle of Intuitive Eating

03:32 The Journey of Letting Go of Diet Rules

05:18 Facing the Fear of Losing Control with Food

22:23 The Struggle with Food Noise

24:38 Understanding Food Noise

25:40 The Spectrum of Food Thoughts

26:50 Healing Your Relationship with Food

28:43 The Role of Dieting in Food Noise

30:43 Medications and Food Noise

36:58 Living with Food Noise

37:58 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts

39:51 Fun and Personal Interests

44:36 Wrapping Up and Farewell