Dietitian Shares 5 Tips for Stress-Free Eating: ‘One Meal Won’t Make or Break Your Progress’

As daily stressors mount—from work obligations to personal responsibilities—dietitian Kylie Sakaida is urging people not to let food be another source of anxiety. Speaking with CNBC Make It, Sakaida shared her approach to “stress-free eating,” aimed at making nutrition simpler and more sustainable.

“There [are] so many decisions involved when it comes to preparing yourself a meal,” said Sakaida, a registered dietitian and author of "So Easy So Good." With over 2 million TikTok followers, she promotes balanced eating without the pressure of perfectionism.

Bowl of healthy food | Source: Pexels

Sakaida explained that stress-free eating is not just about planning meals efficiently, but also about avoiding rigid attitudes toward diet. “So much stress can surround us when it comes to our food choices,” she said, urging people to rethink the all-or-nothing mindset often linked to healthy eating.

Here are five key strategies Sakaida recommends for a less stressful approach to food:

Focus on Additions, Not Restrictions: Rather than cutting foods out, prioritize adding nutrient-rich options, like plant-based proteins.

Boost Fiber Intake: Incorporate more fiber to support digestion, steady blood sugar levels, and overall gut health.

Woman cutting fruit | Source: Pexels

Stay Hydrated: Drinking 25 to 30 ounces of water daily can help balance your diet and improve bodily functions.

Use Convenient Foods: Embrace canned, frozen, or pre-prepared items like rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising nutrition.

“It’s about finding ways to make healthier choices easier and more sustainable for your lifestyle,” she concluded.