Orthorexia, Clean Eating, and the Trap of Diet Culture | ANEW Ep 109

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In this episode of the ANEW Insight Podcast, Dr. Supatra Tovar sits down with Robyn Goldberg—registered dietitian nutritionist, certified eating disorder specialist, and author of The Eating Disorder Trap—to explore how diet culture, orthorexia, and misinformation can derail health., Robyn reminds us that everyday health struggles often stem not from missing miracle cures but from harmful beliefs about food, body image, and worthiness.

With over two decades of private practice experience, Robyn unpacks how the pursuit of “clean eating” can spiral into orthorexia, why intuitive eating and HAES (Health at Every Size) offer a sustainable path forward, and how cultural pressures—from Los Angeles to Instagram—fuel disordered eating. Together, Dr. Tovar and Robyn share practical insights for clinicians, caregivers, and anyone caught in the cycle of dieting, restriction, and body dissatisfaction.

⭐ Episode Highlights

• Robyn Goldberg’s journey into dietetics and eating disorder recovery work
• The inspiration behind her book The Eating Disorder Trap
• How “clean eating” morphs into orthorexia nervosa
• Why orthorexia isn’t yet in the DSM—and why it should be
• Social and cultural pressures that intensify disordered eating
• How HAES and intuitive eating restore body trust
• Strategies to reframe medical misinformation and reclaim food freedom
• The role of curiosity, compassion, and body attunement in recovery

⏱️ Episode Notes / Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction with Dr. Supatra Tovar
 01:00 – Robyn Goldberg’s career beginnings in dietetics
 04:00 – Transition from clinical nutrition therapy to private practice
 07:00 – Writing The Eating Disorder Trap and using illustrations for accessibility
10:00 – Defining orthorexia nervosa and its clinical impact
14:00 – Humor, culture, and pressures in Los Angeles
18:00 – Social media’s influence on body image and disordered eating
21:00 – Integrating intuitive eating and HAES with medical nutrition therapy
25:00 – Helping clients challenge misinformation from medical providers
28:00 – Why all bodies deserve nourishment and joy

📚 Resources & Links

📘 Read Robyn Goldberg’s The Eating Disorder Trap. Here are her social media platforms links:https://askaboutfood.com/,  https://www.yelp.com/biz/robyn-l-goldberg-rd-cedrd-los-angeles,  https://share.google/W7x5rysYIFZLyxjTp , https://share.google/jetwJkPq3YENcA6IU
 🌐 Learn more about ANEW Insight: anew-insight.com
📖 Read my book Deprogram Diet Culture
 🎓 Join the Deprogram Diet Culture Course for lasting transformation

Thank you for joining us on this journey to wellness. Remember, the insights and advice shared on the ANEW Body Insight Podcast are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine. To learn more about the podcast and stay updated on new episodes, visit ANEW Body Insight Podcast at anew-insight.com. To watch this episode on YouTube, visit @my.anew.insight. Follow us on social media at @my.anew.insight on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads for more updates and insights. Thank you for tuning in! Stay connected with us for more empowering stories and expert guidance. Until next time, stay well and keep evolving with ANEW Body Insight!