The start of a new year is always a popular time for reflection and goal-setting, and resolutions often focus on improving health, wellness, and overall quality of life. However, people often have difficulty staying on track and remaining committed to their goals. According to research, only 9% of Americans who make resolutions complete them. Additionally, 23% of people quit their resolution by the end of the first week, and 43% quit by the end of January.
For those who want to establish healthier relationships with food next year, the concept of “food freedom” could be pivotal in achieving health and wellness goals. Diet culture is often characterized by an obsession with rules and weight loss. Restrictive practices, though, can lead to cycles of deprivation or overeating. It is important to have strategies that promote sustainability, mental well-being, and the bigger goal of improving physical health.
Food freedom is gaining popularity, encouraging people to listen to their bodies, understand their unique needs, and move away from rigid frameworks. This philosophy recognizes that food is a source of nourishment and a part of culture and fun. Rather than focusing solely on numbers — whether calories, macros, or weight — food freedom promotes a more holistic approach to eating.
MINDFULL, a wellness platform created by entrepreneur and certified health coach Sam Cutler, brings food freedom to the forefront through its 21-Day Fresh Start Program. Designed to help individuals reframe their relationships with food, the program provides resources and tools emphasizing balance, education, and sustainable choices. An important part of the program is guiding participants away from restrictive dieting habits and toward a deeper understanding of how various foods impact their bodies.
Sam Cutler’s journey forms the foundation of MINDFULL’s mission. Before founding the platform, she experienced a series of chronic health challenges, including severe adult acne, chronic inflammation, and persistent fatigue. Traditional dieting methods, such as calorie counting, did not give her the results she sought.
Cutler turned to nutrition and lifestyle medicine, eventually discovering the power of whole, unprocessed foods. By eliminating gluten and dairy and focusing on eating nutrient-dense meals, she alleviated her health issues and gained valuable insights into the connection between diet and overall wellness.
In 2022, Cutler transformed her experience into MINDFULL, a digital health platform and app serving women in over 30 countries. Start the new year with MINDFULL’s 21-Day Fresh Start Program: Whole Gut, Whole Health. Launching January 3rd, 2025, this transformational program combines 50+ in-app recipe videos, 20+ health coaching videos, a habit change workbook, and live Q&A sessions with your coach, Sam Cutler. Participants will also gain access to an international community for accountability and support, all designed to empower lasting health through whole anti-inflammatory foods, sustainable habits, and mindset work.
Instead of focusing on restrictions, the platform encourages users to explore how different foods affect energy levels, digestion, and mood. By offering simple, adaptable recipes without rigid measurements, the program is accessible to individuals with diverse dietary needs and goals.
Food freedom is also about reshaping the way people view success in health and wellness. Instead of emphasizing weight loss or specific aesthetic outcomes, MINDFULL advocates for indicators like improved energy, better digestion, and overall well-being, helping members tune into what improvements in these areas feel like.
Another key element is the platform’s commitment to education. Many individuals are unaware of nutrition’s impact on health aspects beyond weight. According to the National Library of Medicine, less than 30% of U.S. medical schools provide adequate training in nutrition. This knowledge gap shows the importance of accessible platforms like MINDFULL.
One of the most compelling aspects of MINDFULL’s Fresh Start Program is its focus on mindset. Participants are encouraged to let go of guilt and shame around food choices to achieve balance rather than striving for perfection. While food freedom and intuitive eating are gaining traction, the shift away from diet culture still has its challenges.
Many individuals struggle with unlearning long-held beliefs about food and health. MINDFULL addresses these challenges by creating a supportive community where members can share experiences, ask questions, and celebrate progress. The platform also provides practical tips for navigating real-world situations, such as eating out or managing cravings, without resorting to restrictive behaviors.
With the new year upon us, many people will resolve to improve their health and well-being. MINDFULL’s Fresh Start Program offers a practical, inclusive path for individuals looking to make meaningful changes without falling into the traps of restrictive dieting.