Truth Based Nutrition

Liesel Maddox

Truth Based Nutrition is the podcast you've been looking for to break free from diet culture and heal their relationship with food and body-through real conversations. Hosted by Liesel Maddox, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and business owner, this show dives deep into intuitive eating, recovery, and embracing God’s good design for food and your body. Join Liesel as she shares the real nutrition science truth along with God's truth for food freedom.

  1. FEB 10

    13. Brittany Braswell - How to Prioritize Food Freedom in the Midst of a Busy Schedule

    What does food freedom actually look like when life feels nonstop, schedules are packed, and perfectionism keeps creeping back in? This episode digs into how to pursue peace with food in the middle of real life amidst busy calendars, competing priorities, and the pressure to “do recovery right. We’re joined by Brittany Braswell, a registered dietitian, sought-after public speaker, top-rated podcast host, and creator of The Joy-Filled Eater Course, where she helps Christian women break free from food guilt, body image struggles, and diet culture through a faith-centered, practical approach to food freedom. She’s known for her warm, relatable style and ability to help women experience real peace with food, without obsession or shame. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Recovery doesn't have to be perfect; small steps matter. Busyness can be an excuse that hinders recovery. Intention is more important than time spent on recovery. Perfectionism often leads to an all-or-nothing mentality. Accountability is crucial for maintaining progress in recovery. It's okay to consume convenience foods when necessary. Prioritize adequacy in nutrition over perfection. Breaking food rules can lead to greater freedom. Rest is essential for recovery and overall well-being. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Food Freedom 02:46 Brittany's Journey and Background 09:45 Challenges of Busy Lifestyles 15:12 Barriers to Recovery 20:03 Practical Steps for Recovery 20:38 Introduction to Intentional Eating 21:25 Setting Realistic Goals for Recovery 23:09 Creating a Plan for Food Freedom 26:12 The Importance of Accountability 29:01 Balancing Convenience and Nutrition 31:20 Overcoming Guilt Around Food Choices 36:01 Challenging Perfectionism in Eating 40:32 Final Thoughts on Small Steps to Recovery If you're looking for faith-based food and body freedom, Maddox Nutrition offers compassionate expertise to support both your nutrition and your faith. Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://www.lieselmaddoxnutrition.com/ Sources/Links: Click HERE to lsten to Brittany's podcast, Faith-Filled Food Freedom. Learn more about taking a Christ-centered approach to food freedom inside The Joy-Filled Eater Course at www.brittanybraswellrd.com/course  Subscribe to Brittany's weekly VIP newsletter, The Full Plate Press, for FREE resources on body image, nutrition, and food freedom. Faith-Filled Food Freedom Episode 91: 4 Types of Rest and Why You Need a Sabbath

    44 min
  2. FEB 2

    12. What Happens to Hunger with an Eating Disorder

    We’re breaking down what really happens to hunger cues during an eating disorder and throughout recovery, especially when hunger feels confusing, absent, or completely untrustworthy. This episode walks through how the body was designed to communicate hunger, what goes wrong when restriction or chronic dieting enters the picture, and why the loss of hunger signals is not a sign that the body no longer needs food. This conversation offers both clinical insight and lived experience to normalize the fear and uncertainty that often surround eating in recovery. In this episode, you’ll hear about how… Hunger cues can be confusing during eating disorder recovery. The body takes years to recalibrate hunger signals. Ignoring hunger cues can lead to their shutdown. Ghrelin and leptin regulate hunger as key hormones. Consistent nourishment helps restore hunger cues. Eating consistently is crucial for rebuilding trust with the body. Hunger can manifest in various ways beyond physical sensations. Structure in eating can aid recovery from eating disorders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hunger Cues and Eating Disorders 01:56 The Science Behind Hunger Cues 03:20 Understanding Ghrelin and Leptin 06:32 The Impact of Ignoring Hunger Cues 09:44 Low Power Mode: The Body's Survival Mechanism 12:31 The Importance of Consistent Nourishment 15:55 Rebuilding Trust with Your Body 19:35 Conclusion and Encouragement for Recovery Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://maddoxnutrition.co/ Heal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course https://maddoxnutrition.co/course

    20 min
  3. JAN 26

    11. What Does the Bible Say About Feasting, Fasting, and Gluttony with Anna Marie Long

    We’re unpacking faith, food, and healing with our second guest on the pod, Anna Marie Long, RDN, CEDS, a dietitian who is deeply passionate about integrating faith into the healing journey. In this conversation, we talk about what it truly looks like to invite Jesus into our relationship with food and body image and why that spiritual connection matters in recovery. Our conversation explores common misunderstandings around feasting, fasting, and gluttony, including how these practices are often misused or taken out of context within Christian spaces.  In this episode, you’ll hear about why and how… Letting Jesus into your healing journey is crucial. Feasting is often misunderstood and under-discussed. Fasting should focus on intimacy with God, not health. Praying about food guilt can help alleviate feelings of shame. Fasting can be approached safely and meaningfully. Gluttony is more about heart posture than food consumption. Judging others based on their eating habits is unhelpful. Understanding one's own heart is essential in addressing sin. Confessing struggles can lead to healing and support. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Faith and Nutrition 02:40 Anna Marie's Food & Faith Journey 09:36 Misconceptions of Feasting, Fasting, and Gluttony 10:34 The Spiritual Meaning of Feasting 17:09 Overcoming Food Guilt in Social Settings 20:29 Understanding Fasting: Spiritual and Psychological Aspects 30:46 Defining Gluttony: Heart Posture vs. Behavior 37:06 Closing Thoughts: Truth in Nutrition If you're looking for faith-based food and body freedom, Maddox Nutrition offers compassionate expertise to support both your nutrition and your faith. Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://www.lieselmaddoxnutrition.com/ Sources/Links: Anna Marie’s Webite: annamarierd.com Book: https://www.amazon.com/Nourished-Faith-Biblical-Perspective-Disorders/dp/B0DQH898K6/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 Instagram: @annamarie.rd

    40 min
  4. 12/01/2025

    10. Should Christians Use Ozempic for Weight Loss? (Part 2)

    In this episode, which is part 2 of our GLP 1 conversation, we'll talk about why our intentions around weight loss matter, present more evidence-based research about the risks of these medications, and discuss why focusing only on the number on the scale can pull us away from a fuller picture of health. We'll also explore the spiritual side of this topic, including the pull toward vanity, the temptation to rely on quick fixes, and the deeper call to trust God with our bodies and our wellbeing. Treat this episode as a space to reflect, learn, and approach this conversation with clarity, discernment, and a grounded perspective rooted in faith. In this episode, you’ll hear about how… BMI is an outdated metric that does not accurately reflect individual health Eating disorders pose significant health risks Eating disorders can stem from weight loss pursuits Vanity and pride can distract from spiritual growth and self-worth Idolatry in the pursuit of thinness can take precedence over faith Christians should reflect on their intentions behind using weight loss medications Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ozempic and Weight Loss for Christians 03:15 The Spiritual Perspective on Health and Body 06:26 Understanding Health Beyond Weight 09:08 The Risks of GLP-1 Medications 12:24 The Impact of BMI on Health Perception 14:04 The Dangers of Eating Disorders 16:59 Heart Issues Behind Weight Loss Motivation 18:36 Vanity, Pride, and Self-Worth 21:33 Idolatry and the Pursuit of Thinness 23:56 Trust, Humility, and Surrendering Control 26:32 Conclusion and Call to Action Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://maddoxnutrition.co/ Heal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course https://maddoxnutrition.co/course  Sources: BMI and life expectancy study: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0287218 Eating disorder health consequences study: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjmed-2025-001438 Java With Juli podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/does-god-care-if-you-get-botox-584/id1116000318?i=1000732616623

    43 min
  5. 11/03/2025

    9. Should Christians Use Ozempic for Weight Loss? (Part 1)

    In this episode, we’re unpacking a big and often controversial topic and it's about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic that are being used for weight loss. We’ll talk about how these medications work in the body, what the research shows about their effectiveness, and the potential risks and side effects that often go overlooked. I’ll also share how these drugs can impact someone’s relationship with food, especially for those with a history of disordered eating or body image struggles. Beyond science, we’ll take a step back to look at this conversation through a Christian lens, exploring what it means to pursue health in a way that honors God’s design for our bodies. In this episode, you’ll hear about how… GLP-1 medications are being widely discussed for weight loss. Significant risks and side effects are associated with GLP-1s. Weight loss from GLP-1s is primarily due to appetite suppression. The use of GLP-1s can lead to disordered eating patterns. Long-term use of GLP-1s may result in weight regain. The marketing of GLP-1s resembles past pharmaceutical trends that led to public health crises. True wellness encompasses more than just physical appearance; it includes mental and spiritual health. Education and informed decision-making are crucial when considering GLP-1 medications. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to GLP-1 Medications 06:16 Understanding GLP-1 Mechanism and Effects 13:55 Risks and Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications 20:45 The Impact on Eating Disorders and Metabolism 24:32 Research Insights on Weight Regain and Long-term Use 26:54 The Reality of Weight Regain Post-Medication 30:34 The Financial Incentives Behind Weight Loss Drugs 34:37 Cultural Implications of Weight Loss Medications 37:39 A Compassionate Perspective on Weight Loss 43:13 Biblical Insights on Body Image and Food 50:27 True Wellness Beyond Weight Loss Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://maddoxnutrition.co/Heal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course https://maddoxnutrition.co/course Sources: Christy Harrison episodes:  #340: From Taking Ozempic for Weight Loss to Practicing Weight‑Inclusive Medicine, Guest: Dr. Mara Gordon#337: Why Ozempic Isn’t a Miracle Weight‑Loss Drug, Guest: Amanda Martinez Beck#323: The Hidden Risks of Weight‑Loss Drugs: Behind the GLP‑1 Hype, Guest: Ragen ChastainGLP-1 Informed Consent: sizeinclusivemedicine.org/glp1​ GLP-1 Weight Regain Studies: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2829779 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40507553/ https://epicresearch.org/articles/two-years-after-stopping-glp-1s-most-patients-sustain-at-least-some-weight-loss https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40691794/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589537025002950 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03978-z

    54 min
  6. 10/26/2025

    8. Your Hunger Isn't a Bad Thing

    In this episode, we take a closer look at what it truly means to understand and honor hunger. Diet culture has taught many of us to silence or question our body’s cues, leaving us disconnected from one of the most natural parts of being human. You’ll also hear how Scripture can help reshape the way we view hunger, reminding us that it is not something to fear or suppress but a natural and meaningful part of how God designed our bodies. This conversation is an invitation to approach your body with curiosity, grace, and gratitude as you grow in both faith and food freedom. In this episode, you'll hear about how... Hunger is the starting point of our eatingDiet culture teaches us to mistrust our hungerReconnecting with hunger cues is essential for eating disorder recoveryIgnoring hunger can lead to a disconnection from our bodies and slow metabolismScripture supports the idea that our bodies are good and designed by God Chapters 00:00 Understanding Hunger: The Basics 03:20 The Impact of Diet Culture on Hunger 06:15 Reconnecting with Hunger Cues 12:09 The Role of Scripture in Understanding Hunger 14:47 The Four Types of Hunger 26:58 Navigating Emotional Hunger 31:12 Reconnecting with Hunger Cues 34:03 Practical Tips for Listening to Your Body 41:42 Challenges to Hunger Cues 45:44 What Scripture Says Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! ​Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: maddoxnutrition.coHeal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course: https://maddoxnutrition.co/course Check out more on this topic on our blog: https://maddoxnutrition.co/blog/hunger-cues https://maddoxnutrition.co/blog/christian-nutrition

    49 min
  7. 10/08/2025

    7. What Does Diet Culture In The Church Look Like?

    This episode dives into the pervasive influence of diet culture in the church and how it has shaped the way many people, including myself, struggle with food, body image, and faith. I will share why recognizing body diversity matters and explain the harm caused by “clean eating” ideologies that may sound spiritual but often lead to shame and disconnection from the body. My hope is that this conversation encourages you to find healing, seek support, and embrace God’s design for your body with compassion and freedom. In this episode, you'll hear about how... Diet culture in the church often leads to harmful comments about body size.God created body diversity; we should celebrate it.Clean eating ideologies can promote disordered eating patterns.Dieting can become an idol that distracts from God.Weight loss is not a measure of spiritual health or worth.The Bible does not prescribe a specific body type or diet. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Diet Culture in the Church 05:33 Examples of Diet Culture in the Church 09:07 Scriptural Misinterpretations and Diet Culture 13:37 The Impact of Diet Culture on Individuals 17:45 Healing and Moving Forward 21:47 A New Way Forward with Grace and Freedom Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! ​Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://maddoxnutrition.co​Heal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course: https://maddoxnutrition.co/course Sources: https://maddoxnutrition.co/blog/diet-culture-in-the-church https://maddoxnutrition.co/blog/christian-nutrition

    24 min
  8. 08/25/2025

    6. What Is Intuitive Eating? And Is It Biblical?

    This episode is all about the basics of Intuitive Eating, something I hold a ton of passion for both personally and professionally as a Registered Dietitian. This is Intuitive Eating 101, so we’re walking through where Intuitive Eating came from and its ten core principles. We’ll also go over the evidence supporting the effectiveness of intuitive eating for both physical and mental health. I’ll address common misconceptions about intuitive eating and the importance of professional guidance, especially for those recovering from eating disorders, navigating different health conditions, neurodivergence, or healing from trauma. And of course, we’ll discuss the beautiful ways that Intuitive Eating aligns with God’s design for food and our bodies and how as Christians, the Intuitive Eating framework better equips us to make peace with food so we can serve God fully nourished. In this episode, you’ll hear about how… ​Intuitive Eating is both a structured, evidence-based framework and a deeply individualized approach to eating​Three decades worth of research evidence support the benefits of eating intuitively​The ten Intuitive Eating principles support a healthy relationship with food, exercise, and body image​Intuitive Eating should be implemented at the right time and may not be appropriate for people who need a lot of structure or struggle to be in tune with their body cues​Intuitive Eating aligns with Christian beliefs about food and bodies and supports our enjoyment of God’s good gift of food​Intuitive Eating aligns with Biblical examples in scripture of how Christians are to interact with food and our bodies Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Intuitive Eating and Personal Journey 02:40 Understanding Intuitive Eating: Principles and Framework 09:07 Research Evidence Supporting Intuitive Eating 17:37 Diving into the Principles of Intuitive Eating 40:33 Intuitive Eating from a Christian Perspective 44:18 Resources and Next Steps for Intuitive Eating Don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate, and review the show to help reach more people with the message of food freedom! ​Work with a Christian food freedom dietitian + use your health insurance: https://maddoxnutrition.co/​Heal with food at your own pace: Purchase the Truth Based Nutrition Self-Paced Course https://maddoxnutrition.co/course  Sources: https://www.intuitiveeating.org/studies/ https://maddoxnutrition.co/blog/intuitive-eating

    47 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Truth Based Nutrition is the podcast you've been looking for to break free from diet culture and heal their relationship with food and body-through real conversations. Hosted by Liesel Maddox, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and business owner, this show dives deep into intuitive eating, recovery, and embracing God’s good design for food and your body. Join Liesel as she shares the real nutrition science truth along with God's truth for food freedom.