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Episode #18 | Creating Your Food Environment: Making a Plan

  • christophernetley
  • Nov 9, 2024
  • 2 min read



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Episode Summary


In this episode, Rachel, Denise, and Chris discuss the critical role of the food environment in shaping dietary habits and health outcomes. They explore various strategies for meal planning, the importance of family involvement in food choices, and the challenges individuals face when trying to make healthier decisions in a less supportive environment. The conversation emphasizes the need for gradual changes and the significance of creating a supportive food environment to foster sustainable eating habits. They discuss the challenges and strategies of maintaining a healthy diet in a world filled with food options. Denise and Rachel emphasize the importance of mindful eating, creating a pleasant eating environment, and making healthy foods delicious. The discussion also covers the significance of having a sustainable meal plan and effective grocery shopping strategies to avoid impulsive decisions that lead to unhealthy eating habits.


Key Takeaways


  • The food environment significantly impacts dietary choices and health outcomes.

  • Meal planning can reduce stress and improve nutrition.

  • Batch cooking and meal prep can save time and effort during busy weeks.

  • Simplifying meal choices can help prevent decision fatigue.

  • Family involvement in meal preparation encourages healthier eating habits.

  • Gradual changes in diet are more sustainable than drastic restrictions.

  • Creating a supportive food environment is crucial for success in dietary changes.

  • Healthy eating should be enjoyable and not a source of guilt.

  • Understanding personal triggers for unhealthy eating can guide better choices.

  • It's important to allow for treats in moderation to maintain a balanced approach to eating. 

  • Mindful eating enhances the enjoyment of treats.

  • Creating a pleasant eating environment is valuable.

  • Experimenting with food preparation can make healthy options more appealing.

  • It's important to try new foods without overwhelming yourself.

  • A sustainable plan is key to long-term dietary changes.

  • Shopping when hungry often leads to poor food choices.

  • Meal planning can prevent food waste and promote healthy eating.

  • Finding reliable recipes can simplify meal preparation.

  • Enjoying food with others enhances the dining experience.


Sound Bites


"I love leftovers."

"Make the healthy choice the easy choice."

"Food is meant to be enjoyed."

"Food is joy, food is memory sometimes."

"I got really angry for a long time."

"I'm not gonna eat a sugar-free dessert."

"Meals are an event. You eat with people."

"You can make that environment pleasant."

"How do I make something delicious out of lentils?"

"Don't eat the foods that make you sad."

"You either win or you learn."


Episode Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Food Environment

03:06 The Role of Planning in Nutrition

05:54 Batch Cooking and Meal Prep Strategies

08:45 Simplifying Meal Choices

11:51 The Importance of Family Involvement

14:47 Overcoming Environmental Challenges

17:37 Gradual Changes for Sustainable Eating

21:03 Creating a Supportive Food Environment

32:05 Understanding Hidden Sugars in Everyday Foods

34:03 Mindful Eating and Enjoying Treats

35:35 Creating a Pleasant Eating Environment

36:19 Making Healthy Foods Delicious

39:53 Experimenting with New Foods

46:01 The Importance of a Sustainable Plan

56:27 Shopping Strategies for Healthy Eating


Where to find Chris Netley

Instagram: @chrisnetleyDC 

X (formerly Twitter): @chrisnetleyDC 


Where to find Rachel Mumme:

Instagram: @hillsdalehearth


Where to find Denise Lovinger:


Music: Pixel Swing

Musician: Moscillate


 
 
 
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