Think you’re doing everything right — eating clean, avoiding junk, trying all the wellness trends — but still feel bloated, tired, or stuck? You’re not alone. In this episode, leading nutritionist Laila Al-Naif joins us to unpack the hidden ways your healthy habits might actually be backfiring — and what to do instead.

This is not about restrictive diets or fear-based rules. It’s about helping you understand:

• Why fad diets often fail to create real, lasting change
• How cheat meals mess with your gut and mindset more than you realise
• What your gut actually needs to function well
• Why eating “clean” doesn’t always mean eating right
• How to build balanced meals that support your energy — even when you're busy

If you’re:

• Always bloated, even on a “clean” diet
• Feeling low on energy despite eating well
• Confused about what’s actually healthy
• Craving a simpler, more sustainable approach to food

...this episode will help you reset your thinking and feel better — without the overwhelm. Simplified no BS advice from Layla to get your nutrition on track!

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Thank you to London Dairy, the sponsors of today's episode. This is your reminder to carve out a moment just for you today! Join me and my London Dairy ice cream tub on the couch for that self-care mmmm moment.

TIME STAMPS

(01:30) Introduction

(02:52) FAD Diets: Which one should we avoid?

(06:31) When diets are only a means to an end

(11:30) Cheat meals are your worst friend

(15:04) What your gut needs

(16:53) Eating for your Blood Type

(18:56) Does your cultural heritage play role in what you can and can’t eat?

(27:07) Do emotions play a role in digestion?

(30:38) Is Fasting good?

(39:36) Should we aim for ‘healthy’ or ‘nutritious’?

(43:49) Blueprint for building our plates

(46:55) How to meal prep when you’re time poor?

WHO AM I?

My name is Erika and I am an Australian living in Dubai. I have my own business as a strategic legal consultant and run this podcast to explore my passion + curiosity for all things health, wellness, self growth & mindset. A big focus of mine is how to sustainably navigate a busy schedule and live my best life in the process 📸 Connect with me on IG!

RESOURCES

▶︎ 21 Day Self Growth Challenge

▶︎ Goal Setting System E-Book

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