Episode 191: Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, Ph.D.

Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, Ph.D., is an esteemed psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan. She is renowned for her pioneering research on the intersection of addiction, eating behavior, and obesity. Dr. Gearhardt earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Yale University, where she co-created the Yale Food Addiction Scale, a widely used tool to assess food addiction and its parallels with substance dependence. Her research focuses on understanding how highly processed foods may contribute to addictive-like eating behaviors and the broader implications for public health.

Dr. Gearhardt's work has been extensively published in top-tier scientific journals, and she frequently presents her findings at international conferences. Her research has significantly influenced how the scientific community and the public understand the role of food in the obesity epidemic. Dr. Gearhardt is also actively involved in community outreach and policy discussions, aiming to translate her research into actionable strategies to improve public health.

In addition to her academic work, Dr. Gearhardt has appeared in various media outlets, contributing expert commentary on topics related to food addiction, obesity, and public health policies. Her contributions have been instrumental in advancing the conversation around the addictive properties of certain foods and their impact on behavior and health.

Episode Overview: In this insightful episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Vera Tarman and Molly Painschab sit down with the esteemed Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, a leading expert in the field of food addiction and psychology. Dr. Gearhardt is known for her groundbreaking work in developing the Yale Food Addiction Scale, which has become a pivotal tool in understanding the addictive properties of highly processed foods.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction to Dr. Ashley Gearhardt: Learn about Dr. Gearhardt's background, her journey into the field of psychology, and what inspired her to focus on food addiction.
• Understanding Food Addiction: Dr. Gearhardt explains the parallels between substance addiction and food addiction, particularly how certain foods can trigger addictive-like behaviors in the brain.
• The Yale Food Addiction Scale: Discover how it was developed, its impact on the field, and how it is used to assess food addiction in individuals.
• The Role of Highly Processed Foods: The conversation delves into the role of highly processed foods in contributing to obesity and addictive eating patterns, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals struggling with food addiction.
• Public Health Implications: Dr. Gearhardt discusses the broader implications of her research on public health, including potential strategies to combat the rise of food addiction and obesity.
• Future Research and Initiatives: Hear about Dr. Gearhardt’s ongoing research and what she sees as the future directions for studying and addressing food addiction.

Find Dr. Gearhardt:

Website: https://ihpi.umich.edu/our-experts/agearhar

Yale Food Addiction Scale: https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/fastlab/yale-food-addiction-scale/

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Food-Addiction-2nd-Brownell/dp/019067105X

The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.