Meet The Chef Who Is Getting Personal About Her Relationship With Food

As a nation, our self-image is at an all time low, according to a report on body confidence from the Government Equalities office released in February. In her timely debut cookbook, Le Cordon Bleu chef Lisa Roukin gives insight into her own journey of overcoming body image and eating struggles.

As an overweight child, Lisa was subject to taunts, but deciding to change her body led to an eating disorder. According to the report, Lisa wasn’t alone in her struggle either, with only 63% of women feeling satisfied with their appearance. But today, after training as a chef, Lisa has a healthy attitude to food and eating and is sharing this important message in her new book.

My Relationship with Food features 100 gluten free recipes not containing refined sugar or an overload of carbohydrates. Many are also dairy free. Lisa’s intention is to show how it’s possible to find and win the battle to take charge of your relationship with food and positively thrive, using a combination of mindfulness and considered choices.

“The key to a balanced and happy life is successfully managing relationships – with family, friends, the way we view life, the situations we come across and yes, even with our food,” says Lisa.

With a passion for wholesome food and extensive experience teaching a healthy mindset to young professionals, Lisa saw the need to combat the heavy burden placed on people’s wellbeing by popular culture. It’s this, she explains, that contributes to lowered aspirations and heightened vulnerability.

She includes tips to help you on your journey toward a healthy relationship with food, like planning ahead, being aware, enjoying food and nourishing your mind as well.

“Over the last few years, I can honestly say that My Relationship with Food is now where it should be. These changes didn’t happen overnight, it took time – but I got there and you can too,” she adds. “The food we eat has a huge impact on how we feel, both mentally and physically.”

My Relationship with Food tells Lisa’s story. With 100 recipes organised by season and further, by meal: breakfast, lunch, soups and sides, dinner and treats.

Get your copy of My Relationship with Food: 100 Recipes to Nourish Mind, Body & Soul. £22. 

Or order at www.myrelationshipwithfood.com using ‘welltodo’ to get a copy for £20 plus delivery.