You know that telltale thrill of “starting over” with a bold new diet? That rush of hope as you drink your way through a one-day juice cleanse—only to find yourself caught in a loop of all-or-nothing dieting and yo-yo weight gain, again?
So many of us have been there, squeezing the promise of transformation out of a bottle of celery-cucumber-positivity, convinced that one strict reset will tip the scales—in more ways than one.
But what if I told you the real magic isn’t in what you’re drinking… it’s in what you’re thinking?
In today's episode of the Weight Loss for Fertility podcast we learn:
All-or-Nothing Thinking Is a Sneaky Saboteur
The temptation to go from “everything” to “nothing” (or vice versa) feeds the notorious yo-yo dieting trap. Juice cleanse today, pizza party tomorrow—sound familiar?
Sustainable weight loss happens not in extremes, but in the middle—where we learn to listen to our bodies and trust that hunger scale.
It’s Not the Juice. It’s Our Thoughts.
Feeling energized after a day of juicing? It’s not the kale-carrot blend, it’s the “I did it!” running through our heads. When we focus on following through and being proud of ourselves, we light up with energy no matter what’s in our glass.
Our Thoughts Create Our Feelings—Not the Other Way Around
Whether we feel motivated or defeated after a meal depends on what we tell ourselves about it. Berating our choices leads nowhere fast, but genuine, kind self-talk helps us stick with our goals and actually enjoy the process.
When we celebrate every small win—whether it’s stopping at “satisfied” instead of “stuffed,” or swapping shame for curiosity—we strengthen our relationship with our bodies and set ourselves up for lasting success.
Tune into the full episode—it’s just what's needed for a thoughtful, energized, and sustainable path to weight loss (and fertility).
Links:
Click the links below to lose weight now, the Weight Loss for Fertility way:
Website - stephaniefeinmd.com - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn
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18:40
Ep 132: IVF Cycles, Colds, and the Hunger Scale
Ever notice your hunger signals going wonky when you’re under the weather—or knee-deep in an IVF cycle? You’re not alone! This week, we tap into those subtle cues our bodies send when we’re fighting a bug or navigating the hormonal tides of fertility treatment.
Here’s what you’ll discover in today’s episode:
Your hunger is a messenger—especially during life’s curveballs. Whether you’re sniffly from a cold, immersed in an IVF cycle, or just having an off day, those regular hunger cues might sound a little… off-key. That’s not a problem; it’s information! Noticing changes early on (hello, surprise headache or mood shift) means you can support your body sooner and with more kindness.
Tune in, and the channels get clearer. Using the hunger scale daily ( -5 to +5, remember?) keeps your body’s “phone line” open. That way, subtle changes don’t sneak by—you catch them, respond with rest or fuel, and maybe even get a jumpstart on avoiding that full-blown cold.
When you’re not your usual self, comfort smarter. IVF cycles or a nasty cold are prime times to double down on whole foods, fluids, and lots of nurturing rest—leave the Cheetos for another day! And when comfort calls, have your non-food favorites (blankets, puzzles, a bestie on speed dial) at the ready to soothe emotions without feeding them.
Sometimes, we need to listen for whispers instead of shouts. Becoming our body’s best supporter doesn’t just help us lose weight—it means feeling confident, cared for, and empowered, even in the trickiest of times.
Links:
Ep 10: Comfort Eating & How to Transform Ithttps://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2147849259
Ep 81: The Sneaky Power of Carbs https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2148654737
Ep 85: Sickness & The Hunger Scale https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2148708821
Ep 116: Period Protocol https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2148966569
Click the links below to lose weight now, the Weight Loss for Fertility way:
Website - stephaniefeinmd.com - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn
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22:30
Ep 131: Food Uniform
There’s a secret weapon for weight loss that frees up time, energy, and mental space—no calorie counting required. And yes, you’re allowed to like what you eat. Introducing: The Food Uniform.
What is a Food Uniform?
Think of it like a school or work uniform but for meals. A food uniform means having go-to meals for breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner—meals that you enjoy, that fill you up, and that are simple to prepare. Instead of spending your valuable brainpower (and time!) figuring out what to eat at every meal, you already know your options. This simple structure:
Reduces “food noise” (that endless mental chatter about what to eat)
Saves you energy and time—both in your kitchen and in your mind
Helps you catch hunger early and avoid over-eating
Why Does It Work?
When decisions are made ahead of time, food-related stress, guilt, and drama melt away. You eat what fuels and satisfies you, and can actually focus on living the rest of your fabulous life.
Getting Started with Your Food Uniform
Check where you are now: You probably already rotate a few favorite breakfasts. Expand on that! Add go-to lunches for weekdays, or make Friday a burger night.
Choose foods you love: Never force yourself to eat food you don’t enjoy. This isn’t a diet—it’s a lifestyle shift!
Keep it satisfying: Meals with enough protein will keep you full for hours.
Optimize for ease: Consider how easy food is to prep, store, and clean up. The less friction, the better!
Plan, don’t restrict: If you love variety, plan it into your week—just decide in advance so your brain isn’t overwhelmed last-minute.
Pro Tips
Experiment! Try new options from your local store’s prepared food section.
Batch prep for the week, and make sure you have the right containers.
Use your “food date” time to review what’s working and plan tweaks—or add new favorites to your rotation.
The Real Magic
Having regular, well-loved meal options reduces stress, saves time, and supports weight loss by making healthy decisions automatic. Even if you crave variety, planning ahead brings freedom—not restriction.
Links:
Ep 9: Weekly Food Plan - https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2147844768
Click the links below to lose weight now, the Weight Loss for Fertility way:
Website - stephaniefeinmd.com - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn
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19:20
Ep 130: The Easiest Way to Follow Through
Ever found yourself determined to make a change—walk in the morning before work, let's say--but when the alarm rings—your brain offers a million clever reasons why hitting the snooze is a better idea?
That tug-of-war between good intentions and last-minute resistance? Oh, my friend, that is not just you. It’s classic human—and it’s exactly what we’re untangling today.
Here are three ways to make following through on your weight loss goals so much easier (and yes, kindness is absolutely required):
Expect mind drama—and welcome it: Deciding to do something is step one, but what comes next is your brain’s best magic show of self-doubt and distraction. Know it’s coming. “Oh hi, distracting thoughts, right on cue!” Anticipate resistance as evidence your brain is working perfectly to keep you ‘safe’—not as a signal to abandon ship.
Allow discomfort—and act anyway: Sometimes, doing the thing feels awkward, imperfect, or downright uncomfortable. (Hello, giving yourself hormone shots or skipping the bread basket at dinner.) The trick isn’t to wait for motivation or for the discomfort to vanish, but to do the uncomfortable thing while being gentle with yourself. Allow those feelings in—invite them for a seat in the back row. The show goes on regardless.
Celebrate—and repeat: Every tiny act of follow-through is worth a high-five, a sticker, or at the very least, a moment of genuine pride. That’s how you train your brain to repeat the behavior—by basking in the afterglow of “I actually did it,” even if it was messy or not quite perfect.
Following through, whether it’s on a morning walk, your own meal plan, or a new healthy habit, isn’t about being a drill sergeant—it’s about being your own best ally. Expect brain chaos, show yourself heaps of kindness, and celebrate every single heroic effort.
Imagine the power and freedom that comes from knowing you can trust yourself to keep your word —not just for the next two months, but for a lifetime of healthy choices.
You’ve got this. And I’m cheering you on, every imperfect, fabulous step of the way.
Links:
Ep 24: The Best Way to Stay Motivated for Weight Loss - https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2147923988
Ep 74: Food Date - https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2148581613
Click the links below to lose weight now, the Weight Loss for Fertility way:
Website - stephaniefeinmd.com - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn
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28:13
Ep 129: All-You-Can-Eat Buffets
When was the last time you faced an all-you-can-eat buffet and emerged victorious?
Does the lure of endless options sometimes catch you off guard?
It's possible to continue losing weight, even the face of lavish spreads.
Buffets are strategically designed to have us overeat, but using the Hunger Scale to stop at a “positive two” — satisfied, not full — can refine our entire dining experience.
Buffets aren't just about food for money; they're about the whole social event including the ambiance and the company. Remembering this shifts the focus and puts the food in its rightful place.
Conscious decisions are our superpower. Whether we choose to splurge a little or stick to a plan, we've got the tools to enjoy our buffet without the guilt overload.
Buffets aren't about how much you can eat, but what you care to enjoy.
Transform your experiences from free-for-all to mindfulness and your weight-loss goals remain in sight 🌟
Links:
Ep 2: Hunger Scale - https://www.stephaniefeinmd.com/podcasts/weight-loss-for-fertility/episodes/2147828528
Click the links below to lose weight now, the Weight Loss for Fertility way:
Website - stephaniefeinmd.com - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn
Struggling with infertility is hard enough on its own, but being told to lose weight also, with no clear idea of what to actually do next can feel particularly defeating.
Weight Loss for Fertility is the only podcast around that helps guide you when you're having a rough start to motherhood and have been told that weight loss could help with your fertility. On this podcast, your internist turned weight loss expert, Stephanie Fein MD, helps navigate the vulnerable world of infertility and weight loss with compassion and experience.
Insulin, inflammation, hormones, and diet mentality make weight loss tricky for those TTC. Understanding and improving each will clear the way for successful ovulation, IVF, or ICSI.
Listen in to find tools and resources that’ll help you along this path while being guided with love and compassion. Be sure to share the podcast with anyone who could benefit and follow so you don’t miss an episode!
Visit StephanieFeinMD.com to learn more
* The information on this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, dietary supplement, exercise, or other health program.
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