Ep 256: Tricky Talks: Weight, Food, and Exercise

Juna Grata and Dr. Edward Phillips, co-authors of Food, We Need
to Talk, join us to discuss controversial health topics. We cover
how parents can skillfully navigate tricky talks on weight,
exercise, and dieting.





Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment
that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more
information, and a free consultation.


Full Show Notes


Raising teenagers in today's society comes with a myriad of
concerns, from academic pressures to social dynamics, but one
topic that lurks in the shadows of family life is how we approach
the subject of food. For many parents, navigating discussions
around eating habits, body image, and nutrition is like walking a
tightrope, filled with potential missteps that could lead to
unhealthy patterns. Yet, ignoring these conversations isn't the
solution either. So, how can parents support their teens in
developing a healthy relationship with food?


This week on Talking to Teens, we dive deep into the complexities
of food, diet, and metabolism with Juna Grata and Dr. Edward
Phillips, co-authors of "Food, We Need to Talk." Juna Grata, a
Harvard graduate with a rich background in cognitive neuroscience
and a personal journey through the maze of diet culture, and Dr.
Edward Phillips, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School
specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, bring
together their expertise and experiences to shed light on how to
talk about food in a way that nurtures healthy habits.


Debunking the Metabolism Myth


One of the biggest misconceptions that surround our understanding
of food and weight is metabolism. Juna and Edward unravel the
science behind metabolism, clarifying common myths and explaining
how our body's energy management system really works. They
emphasize the role of muscle mass in metabolism and challenge the
widely held belief that our metabolic rate dramatically slows
down as we age.


The Problem with Diets


At the heart of many family tensions around food is the topic of
dieting. With an overwhelming array of diets promising quick
fixes, it's no wonder parents and teens find themselves caught in
a cycle of restrictive eating. Our guests discuss why diets often
fail in the long term and how they can lead to unhealthy eating
habits and disorders.


Navigating Conversations About Weight


Juna shares her personal experiences with family comments about
weight and how they contributed to an unhealthy relationship with
food. Edward, as a parent, provides perspective on the fine line
between promoting healthy habits and contributing to body image
issues. They provide insights into how parents can foster a
supportive environment that focuses on health and well-being
rather than weight.


Foster a Healthy Food Environment


Our episode explores strategies for creating a home where healthy
eating is the norm, not the exception. From shopping habits to
meal preparation, Juna and Edward offer practical tips for
encouraging nutritious choices without making food a source of
conflict. They advocate for framing food as fuel, emphasizing its
role in supporting our body’s needs, including enhancing physical
performance and cognitive functions.


In the episode...


Understanding the role of fat in our diet and dispelling the
myth of fat as the enemy

Strategies for involving teens in meal planning and cooking
to promote healthier eating habits

The importance of modeling healthy habits and creating a
non-restrictive food environment at home

How to support teens struggling with body image issues and
foster body positivity

The impact of external influences, such as social media and
peers, on teens’ eating habits and perceptions of health




Join us for an enlightening conversation that will equip you with
the tools and knowledge to have meaningful dialogues about food
with the teenagers in your life. Don’t forget to listen to the
full episode and subscribe to Talking to Teens for more insights
into the art and science of parenting teenagers.





Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment
that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more
information, and a free consultation.