This impactful episode features Debra Benfield sharing her expertise and personal journey through diet culture, ageism, and self-acceptance. The conversation, hosted by Dr. Cristina Castagnini, delves into the pervasive cultural pressures surrounding aging, food, and body image. Debra explains how undernourishment is often disguised as discipline, urges listeners to question “anti-aging” marketing, and offers guidance to reclaim trust and compassion for their changing bodies. Deb Benfield is a registered dietitian/nutrition therapist, body image coach, and author of Unapologetic Aging. With over 40 years of experience, she helps people untangle from diet culture, resist ageism, and reclaim trust in their changing bodies. Her work blends compassion, activism, and unapologetic truth-telling to inspire a more liberated way of living in midlife and beyond. Deb’s mission is simple but radical: to help us age boldly—no shrinking, no apologies.          

KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED:

  • Why undernourishment is often hidden by so-called discipline, especially for midlife women.
  • How diet culture manipulates perceptions of health, aging, and worth.
  • The impact of ageism and anti-fat bias on self-care choices.
  • How to discern genuine self-care from subtle self-harm and reclaim trust in your changing body.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:55 Today's Guest: Deb Benfield
  • 01:34 Deb Benfield's Journey and Insights
  • 02:17 The Impact of Diet Culture on Aging
  • 05:10 Understanding Undernourishment and Its Effects
  • 10:43 The Minnesota Starvation Study
  • 15:57 Navigating Midlife Changes and Ageism
  • 26:05 Navigating Aging and Relevance
  • 27:17 The Struggle with Body Image
  • 29:02 Men and Aging: Unique Challenges
  • 30:36 The Reality of Aging and Death
  • 31:24 Debunking Anti-Aging Myths
  • 36:09 The Problem with Social Media Health Advice
  • 38:03 Personalized Nutrition and Wellness
  • 43:14 The Importance of Individualized Diets
  • 44:50 Book Release and Final Thoughts

CONNECT WITH DEB BENFIELD:

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

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Until next time, remember, we're here to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and support each other on the path to a better life.

Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

The content of this podcast episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or affiliated organizations. If you have any medical or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those sensitive to topics related to body image, weight stigma, and eating disorders.