The Sunday Daily: To Save His Life, Our Food Critic Reset His Appetite - The Daily Recap

Podcast: The Daily

Published: 2026-03-15

Duration: 37 min

Guests: Pete Wells

Summary

Former New York Times restaurant critic Pete Wells shares his journey of radically transforming his eating habits to save his life, focusing on mindfulness and dietary changes.

What Happened

Michael Bavaro sits down with former New York Times restaurant critic Pete Wells to discuss his drastic lifestyle change centered around food mindfulness and health. Wells explains how a chance encounter with a doctor at a party led to the revelation that his health was in critical condition, marked by a potential liver disease and being pre-diabetic.

To address these health concerns, Wells embarked on a mission to change his relationship with food. He began by eliminating simple carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour from his diet, which he found were contributing to his constant cravings and mental haze. This change brought clarity and reduced the persistent 'food noise' in his mind.

Wells shares how he shifted his focus to eating more fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods, while reducing the intake of animal products. He describes how this transition included shopping at a food co-op, which offered fresher and more diverse produce, aligning with his new dietary needs.

The discussion highlights how Wells' approach to eating became more intentional and mindful, focusing on what he truly needed rather than indulging in routine restaurant fare. This change also led him to appreciate the process of cooking and the sensory engagement it brings.

Wells talks about his decision to significantly cut down on alcohol consumption, a staple during his years as a critic. He finds it easier to abstain from drinking at home, reserving it for social occasions and special dinners.

The episode concludes with Wells reflecting on his newfound appreciation for food and the simple pleasures that mindful eating has brought into his life. He expresses contentment with his improved health and a deeper understanding of his body's needs.

Key Insights

• Eliminating simple carbohydrates like sugar and white flour from a diet can reduce cravings and mental haze, contributing to clearer thinking and reduced 'food noise.'
• Transitioning to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods while reducing animal products can align with dietary needs for better health and mindfulness.
• Shopping at food co-ops can provide access to fresher and more diverse produce, which supports a plant-based diet and enhances dietary quality.
• Reducing alcohol consumption to social occasions can simplify adherence to a healthier lifestyle, especially after years of frequent drinking in professional settings.