What is a key characteristic of an intuitive eater during the final stage?

A key characteristic of an intuitive eater in the final stage is the ability to view food in a joyful and liberating manner. This perspective represents the culmination of the intuitive eating process, where the individual has worked through previous challenges with food, body image, and dieting mentality. At this stage, intuitive eaters embrace a healthy relationship with food, free from guilt and restriction, and recognize that food is a source of nourishment, pleasure, and social connection.

This joyful approach allows individuals to honor their hunger and fullness cues without fear or guilt, facilitating a balanced and positive relationship with food. In contrast, feelings of guilt about food choices, constant tracking of food intake, and fear of gaining weight are indicative of a more restrictive mindset, which is not aligned with the principles of intuitive eating.