Inside Mikayla Matthews’ health journey and how she manages cravings without sacrifices

Mikayla Matthews is speaking candidly about her ongoing health journey, motherhood, and growing career as an entrepreneur while managing a chronic illness.

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star and influencer shared insights into how she balances her personal life and business ventures while discussing her partnership with the potato chip brand Snackish, which launched at Target on June 17.

Matthews, who has equity and creative input in the brand, said she was drawn to Snackish because it aligned with her lifestyle needs while living with chronic health challenges.

“I've been on a long health journey for the last almost five years now,” she said, adding that being a “big foodie” while managing her condition has been difficult.

She explained that she loves snacking but has often had to find healthier alternatives.

However, she noted that many healthier options she tried in the past lacked the taste and satisfaction she wanted.

“With a lot of brands, it comes with not tasting as good, or you don't crave it as much,” she said.

Matthews, who describes herself as a “big chip person,” said Snackish chips stood out because they allow her to enjoy what she craves without compromise.

“I find myself craving them and reaching for them all the time, and you don't have to make those sacrifices,” she said.

Matthews has previously shared that she lives with chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS), a condition linked to immune system dysregulation that can affect multiple parts of the body, according to medical sources.

She has spoken openly about symptoms including skin irritation and other ongoing health challenges.

Despite the difficulties, she said sharing her experience online has helped her connect with others facing similar struggles.

“I like to use my platform and my experience going through chronic health to help other people going through it because it can be very isolating,” she said.

Matthews also reflected on the pressures of balancing motherhood, work, and health issues, saying the process is still a work in progress.

“Genuinely, I have not balanced it,” she admitted. “I think it really is just taking it day by day.”

She added that her motivation comes from wanting to provide for her children while pursuing work she is passionate about.

Mom guilt, she said, is something she actively works through by reminding herself of the opportunities she is able to create for her family.

“I wouldn't have been able to do this if it wasn't for the position that I put myself in and the work that I put into my business,” she said.

Matthews also praised her children as “picky testers” of her products, noting their approval plays a major role in her choices.

Beyond her business, she said she enjoys collaborating with other women in the creator space and supporting female-led brands.

When it comes to online criticism, Matthews said her response varies depending on the day, but she tries not to let negativity take over her mindset.

“I don't think anyone's meant to consume as much social media as we do now,” she said, adding that she focuses on the positive aspects of her platform and the community it creates.