In this episode of Brain Injury Bites, Brooke Trotter and Ashwini Kamath continue their conversation with specialist dietitian Sian Riley, exploring how nutrition, identity and emotional wellbeing are deeply connected after a brain injury.

They discuss how food is more than fuel — it is linked to choice, independence, identity and even grief. Sian explains how brain injury can affect planning, appetite, routine, and body image, and shares how to work with these changes in a compassionate and realistic way. From mindful eating to meal planning, she offers ways to restore joy, autonomy and balance.

They explore:

• How food supports not just healing, but independence and confidence
• Meal planning, decision fatigue and how routine can reduce overwhelm
• Why nutrition should feel achievable, not perfect
• The psychological side of eating, including guilt, control and grief
• How to approach changes in body image and identity after injury
• Supporting long-term health and strength, not just weight

Whether you are recovering from a brain injury or supporting someone who is, this episode offers thoughtful, practical guidance on how to make food a positive and empowering part of life again.

For a transcript, follow the link below:

• Episode Transcript

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Contact details:

• www.redpeppernutrition.com
• sian@redpeppernutrition.com

Helpful links:

• Fifth Sense Charity - https://www.fifthsense.org.uk/
• AbScent Charity - https://abscent.org/
• The 5 basic tastes and why they matter to us - https://www.redpeppernutrition.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/red-pepper-nutrition-5-basic-tastes-why-they-matter.pdf

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Notice:

Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.