Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a Clinical Psychologist specializing in ADHD and eating disorders, discusses executive function challenges in healthy eating, common eating disorders associated with ADHD, the social and sensory aspects of eating, and the impact of food choices on ADHD symptoms. The podcast also explores personal experiences with mindful eating, challenges associated with ADHD and eating, understanding clinical eating disorders, and the effects of medication on appetite.
Eating processed foods can lead to overeating, nutrient deficiencies, and various health complications.
Understanding sensory preferences and finding healthier alternatives can help individuals with ADHD navigate impulsive eating and develop a balanced approach to food consumption.
Deep dives
The Impact of Processed Food on Eating Habits
Processed foods are designed to be less satisfying, leading to overeating and a lack of essential nutrients. Eating processed food means missing out on high protein foods, complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables, which affects overall health and satiety. The prevalence of processed foods in our diets contributes to higher risks of obesity, binge eating disorders, and impulsive eating, which can further lead to other health complications.
The Sensory Nature of Food and ADHD
Food is a multi-sensory experience that can greatly impact eating habits for individuals with ADHD. The sensory seeking nature of ADHD may contribute to cravings for specific textures, tastes, and smells. Understanding one's sensory preferences and finding healthier alternatives that provide similar sensory stimulation can help navigate impulsive eating and promote a more balanced and mindful approach to food consumption.
Mindfulness and Mindful Eating
Practicing mindfulness can play a crucial role in improving eating habits. Being mindful of what we eat, understanding our cravings, and connecting with the sensory experience of food can promote healthier choices and satiety. Slowing down and savoring each bite, noticing the flavors, textures, and the cues of satisfaction from our body can help regulate eating patterns and foster a positive relationship with food.
Seeking Professional Help for Eating Disorders and Weight Issues
For individuals struggling with eating disorders or weight issues, seeking professional help is crucial. These challenges are not a matter of willpower or morality, but rather a reflection of how ADHD affects eating behavior. Working with clinicians, coaches, and nutritionists can provide the necessary guidance, support, and strategies to manage these issues, develop healthier habits, and foster a positive body image.
In today’s episode we talk to Dr. Roberto Olivardia. A Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Olivaria specializes in ADHD, Executive functioning issues, and OCD, as well as Body Dysmorphic Disorder and eating disorders.
Dr. Olivardia talks to us about ADHD and eating. We discuss the executive function challenges that underpin healthy eating, the eating disorders most common to ADHD, the social nature of eating, and how the things we eat can affect our ADHD.