From skwigg's journal:
Interesting about the trust gap. I sure had one! But that's exactly what is repaired and rebuilt as you go through the process of learning intuitive eating. Instead of feeling abstract and unreliable, hunger and fullness become clear and friendly. A huge part of that process is taking a step back from diet culture, which blasts us with messages that our bodies can't be trusted, hunger is unreliable, guilt is normal, shame works, nutrition is complicated, numbers are necessary, willpower is required, it's your fault, on and on. So, of course when we've internalized all this for years, we're going to be very skeptical that we can do anything on our own, even decide what and how much to eat for lunch.
I'm realizing that kind of logic is gentle nutrition. That's exactly what they mean by it: "I need to eat regular meals or I'll be overly hungry." "I feel better when I include some vegetables at most meals." "Dairy doesn't agree with me." "Fiber helps my digestion." "Balanced meals feel best." As dieters we made rules to go with those observations. "Dairy is off limits!" As recent non-dieters we created structure, templates, habits. "Three meals and no snacking." As intuitive eaters, I guess the truths are still truths, "I feel better and enjoy meals more when I snack less." But there's no pressure to adhere strictly and no judgment if you make exceptions. You care for youself because you deserve to be cared for, not because sugar is poison, or bread is fattening, or snacks aren't on the plan. The differences in language and intent are subtle but important.