Description:
OPD Points: 5
The pervasive influence of diet culture and weight stigma has significant psychological and emotional consequences for individuals of all ages and body sizes. Psychologists and counsellors are increasingly supporting clients who struggle with body image, self-esteem, disordered eating, and internalised weight bias.
In this informative and evidence-based presentation, practitioners are introduced to Intuitive Eating—a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach that promotes a healthier, more compassionate relationship with food and body. This session explores the psychological and sociocultural roots of diet culture, examines its impact on health and behaviour, and presents Intuitive Eating as a clinically relevant intervention.
Session Topics
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The Diet Mentality and its Psychological Impact
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Understanding Weight Stigma and Internalised Weight Bias
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Health and Behavioural Consequences of Yo-Yo Dieting
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The Client Experience of Diet Culture in Therapeutic Settings
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Core Concepts and Evidence Behind Intuitive Eating
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Introduction to the 10 Principles of Intuitive Eating
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Traits of Intuitive Eaters and Application in Practice
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Practical Resources for Clinicians
Drawing from both psychology and dietetics, this session is designed to bridge interdisciplinary knowledge and help mental health professionals support clients in moving away from restrictive, harmful diet patterns toward self-care and body respect.
Key Learning Objectives / Outcomes:
By the end of this CPD session, participants will be able to:
Understand the psychological and cultural foundations of diet culture and the “diet mentality.”
Recognise the impact of weight bias and weight stigma, including their internalisation, on mental and physical health.
Describe the health consequences of chronic dieting and the diet-binge cycle.
Identify and explain the 10 core principles of the Intuitive Eating framework.
Explore current evidence supporting Intuitive Eating and its implications for psychological practice.
Integrate Intuitive Eating principles into client work with sensitivity and relevance.
Assessment:
Presenter / Provider:
Gayle Landau
Presenter Qualifications:
Gayle Landau qualified with a BSc (Medical Honours) in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Cape Town. She has clinical and hospital experience working with adults, having worked in the private sector locally and at the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust in the UK. Gayle has medical and surgical experience having worked in ICU, medical and surgical wards. She has experience in the nutritional management of patients with diabetes, swallowing and feeding problems (dysphagia), general gastro-intestinal health problems like IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, colo-rectal cancer and stoma care, artificial nutrition support (TPN/enteral tube feeding) and post-operative care from gut surgery. She is affiliated to the Wits Donald Gordon Colorectal Unit. Gayle also has a keen interest in the management of diabetes and has completed the Centre of Diabetes advanced course in Diabetes Care for Health Professionals. She has been accredited by EatFitSA to run their IBS/Low Foodmap and digestive health programme (www.eatfitsa.com). Gayle applies principles of mindful-intuitive eating when she counsels and has developed the Restore ME mindful eating programme suitable for individual and group counselling sessions. She is passionate about nutrition and the positive role it can play in optimizing health and wellness. Gayle is registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Association for Dietetics in South Africa (ADSA).
