Q&A with Tony Agyin-Birikorang, Auburn University Recreation and Wellness Registered Dietitian
On Monday, March 16th, 2026, Director of Health and Wellness, Ada Blackstock, and Director of Campus Relations, McKenzie Steury, from Auburn Panhellenic cabinet interviewed dietician Anthony Agyin–Birikorang at Auburn University’s Rec and Wellness Center.
According to dietician Anthony Agyin–Birikorang, body positivity from a nutrition perspective means focusing on how your body functions and feels rather than how it looks. This means encouraging college women to prioritize strength, energy, and overall well-being over appearance. Instead of chasing unrealistic standards, students can build a healthier relationship with food by setting health-based goals, eating consistently throughout the day, and planning balanced meals and snacks that fuel busy schedules. This could look like packing nutritious snacks or simply making a healthier choice when deciding what foods to eat on campus. It’s important to recognize that diet culture myths—like labeling foods as “good” or “bad” or fearing carbs and fats—can be harmful, and that all foods can fit into a balanced lifestyle.
Stress and comparison, especially through social media, can negatively impact eating habits. Practicing self-awareness, limiting comparison, and listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues are key. This is otherwise known as intuitive eating.
When asking Dietician Anthony Agyin–Birikorang about how to promote inclusive conversations around food and wellness, this was his response: Chapters can promote inclusive conversations around food and wellness by ensuring accessibility to resources that support healthy eating for all members, regardless of background or financial situation. They can host programs and workshops that address optimizing wellness, body image acceptance, and balanced nutrition. This creates a supportive environment where members feel comfortable engaging in these topics. Interactive demonstrations and activities can further encourage participation and make learning more engaging. Additionally, using positive language around food and promoting initiatives like Body Diversity Day can cultivate a culture that values all body types and promotes overall well-being.
Ultimately, true “health” goes beyond weight and includes adequate nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management, all of which support both physical energy and a positive body image.
