Food Junkies Podcast

In this episode of Clinician’s Corner, Molly and Clarissa explore the often-overlooked realities of long-term recovery. While many recovery programs focus on the acute phases and early abstinence, sustainable recovery demands much more—it asks us to renovate our lives. Drawing from the latest research—including insights from Harvard’s Recovery Research Institute and their own published study on food addiction outcomes—they break down the average 17-year journey toward stable remission and emphasize that recovery is a process, not a finish line. 🧠 Topics include: The 3 stages of long-term recovery and why it takes time What “discovery” looks like after recovery stabilizes The role of coping skills, daily structure, and stress management Why routine = safety for the recovering brain The neuroscience behind mindfulness and relapse prevention How community support, peer connection, and giving back drive lasting change Permission to grow, evolve, and let go of what no longer serves your recovery Molly and Clarissa also share personal reflections and client experiences that bring the research to life—reminding us all that recovery isn’t just about what we stop doing, but about what we start creating. 🔄 Whether you're early in recovery or navigating the path of long-term healing, this episode will offer validation, insight, and hope. 🧭 Key Links: • 🎟 Register for IFACC 2025 • 📄 Read the Delphi Consensus Paper  • 📄 Read the 12-Month Outcome Study on Food Addiction Recovery 🔗 Sweet Sobriety Foundations Course   💌Please email questions, concerns, and topics to foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com   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.

In this episode of Food Junkies Podcast, Molly and Clarissa sit down with clinical psychologist, researcher, and international food addiction advocate Dr. Jen Unwin to unpack a trifecta of groundbreaking developments in the field of Ultra-Processed Food Use Disorder (UPFUD). If you’ve been craving science-backed insight, real recovery stories, and practical hope for the future, this conversation delivers. Together, we explore: 🧠 Two Major Research Milestones • The Delphi Consensus Paper, which brings together 40 global experts to define and validate Ultra-Processed Food Addiction as a diagnostic concept • The 12-Month Outcome Study, which demonstrates remarkable long-term improvements in food addiction symptoms and mental wellbeing across diverse international recovery programs 🌍 The Upcoming International Food Addiction & Comorbidities Conference (IFACC 2025) Hosted in London this September, this two-day event will bring together clinicians, researchers, and the recovery community to spotlight UPFA’s role in mental health, metabolic illness, trauma, and more. 🗓 This Saturday’s Live Virtual Event – April 26 Don’t miss the Food Relationship Fix hosted by Dr. Tro Kalayjian and team—including talks from Dr. Jen, Dr. Rob Cywes, and more. All proceeds go directly toward supporting IFACC 2025 and furthering food addiction advocacy. Whether you're a clinician, a coach, someone in recovery, or simply food-addiction-curious, this episode is packed with inspiration, cutting-edge data, and an invitation to step into hope. Dr. Jen’s message is clear: Recovery is not just possible—it’s probable. 🧭 Key Links: • 🎟 Register for IFACC 2025 • 🎥 Join the Food Relationship Fix virtual event this Saturday (April 26) • 📄 Read the abstract of the provisionally accepted Delphi Consensus Paper (coming soon!) • 📄 Read the 12-Month Outcome Study on Food Addiction Recovery   💌Please email questions, concerns, and topics to foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com   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.

In this extraordinary episode, Food Junkies host Dr. Vera Tarman turns the mic on herself—joined by Swedish trailblazer Bitten Jonsson—for a deeply personal, no-holds-barred conversation on their parallel journeys through food addiction, recovery, and advocacy. With over 60 years of combined experience in addiction medicine, Vera and Bitten walk us through the moments they first recognized their struggles with food and sugar, the evolving science of addiction, and how their professional paths have shaped the global conversation around Ultra-Processed Food Addiction. 💡 What You’ll Hear In This Episode: When and how Vera and Bitten each first realized they had a problem with food Bitten’s early days applying addiction models to sugar use in Sweden Vera’s turning point from bulimia and obsession to scientific clarity The evolution of treatment approaches—from restrictive diets to holistic care Why the addiction model matters—and how it still faces resistance Stories of frustration, discovery, and determination The roots of their pioneering programs, books, and diagnostic tools What’s next for food addiction science and how professionals can catch up And yes, the dogs that helped heal their hearts 🐶 🧠 Key Takeaways: “Food addiction” is too broad—refined sugar and flour are the real psychoactive substances Early recovery often mimicked diet culture—freedom came through connection and knowledge Recovery is not just physical or behavioral—it’s metabolic, neurological, psychological, and spiritual Both Vera and Bitten believe we’re at a turning point: a renaissance in food addiction awareness and professional training 🌍 Where Do We Go From Here? Vera and Bitten envision a future where every doctor, nurse, therapist, and policymaker is trained in recognizing and treating food addiction. They call for compassion, clarity, and connection in how we talk about—and treat—this misunderstood condition. 🐾 And yes, there are dogs. Because sometimes, unconditional love and a wagging tail really can help us stay the course. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone. Let’s end the shame—and start the healing. 🌱Transform Within IFS Workshop with Vanessa Kreddler: https://sweetsobriety.newzenler.com/courses/transform-within 💌 Email us at foodjunkiespodcast.com 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.

In this powerful and timely conversation, we welcome Dr. Eike Buabang, cognitive neuroscientist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Trinity College Dublin, to explore one of the most fundamental yet overlooked topics in recovery: habits. Dr. Buabang studies the brain mechanisms behind habit formation—why we repeat behaviors even when they no longer serve us, and how stress, repetition, and environment shape our choices. Drawing from both neuroscience and real-world applications, he offers practical insights into how we can intentionally disrupt compulsive patterns and support lasting behavior change. Whether you’re navigating ultra-processed food recovery, supporting clients in early abstinence, or trying to create new routines that align with your values, this conversation will give you tools, understanding, and encouragement to work with—not against—your brain. 🔍 In this episode, we cover: What is a habit? (and why they’re not just “bad choices”) The brain’s habit vs. goal-directed systems: how they interact and conflict Why habits persist even after behavior changes The impact of stress and how it shifts control from intentional actions to automatic ones Why willpower is helpful—but not the whole picture Habit stacking and implementation intentions for creating new routines How environment and social context influence behavior (for better or worse) Personal values, identity, and long-term habit sustainability Applications for recovery from addiction, OCD, and UPF use disorder How neuroscience can support harm reduction, self-compassion, and individualized care 👤 Guest Bio: Dr. Eike Buabang is a cognitive neuroscientist at Trinity College Dublin. As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, he investigates how habits form, persist, and influence behavior—especially in contexts like addiction, decision-making, and mental health. His research uses experimental paradigms and EEG to explore the underlying neural mechanisms of habits and how they interact with our goals, environment, and emotional states. 💬 Quotes to Remember: “Small consistent actions matter far more than bursts of motivation.” – Dr. Eike Buabang “The habits remain even when the behavior stops. That’s why managing the cue-response system is so critical.” “We don’t erase old patterns—we build new ones that can eventually override them.” IMPORTANT INFO: 🌟 If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on your favorite podcast app! It helps others find the support and science they need to heal. 💌 Email your questions and suggestions to foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com 🚨Interested in the Transform Within Workshop in May 2025 with Vanessa Kreddler? Learn more HERE.  🍥Interested in the 2025 International Food Addiction and Comorbidities Conference? Learn more HERE.  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.  

In this thought-provoking Clinician’s Corner episode, Clarissa Kennedy and Molly Painschab dive deep into the ever-popular term “self-sabotage” — and why they believe it’s not only inaccurate but potentially harmful in the context of food addiction recovery.   Together, they explore how behaviors often labeled as self-sabotage are actually maladaptive coping strategies, formed through years of survival. These are not signs of brokenness, but evidence of brilliance in navigating pain, trauma, and unmet needs. The duo discusses how using shame-based language like “chronic relapser” or “self-sabotage” can derail healing, and instead, offer curiosity, compassion, and nervous system awareness as more empowering alternatives.   This episode is packed with insight, real client stories, and powerful reframes that will resonate with anyone navigating food addiction, emotional eating, or recovery setbacks.   Key Takeaways: • 🔁 “Self-sabotage” often reflects nervous system dysregulation, not moral failure — these behaviors were once adaptive strategies that worked to protect you. • 🧠 Your brain prioritizes the familiar over the functional — even if the familiar thing hurts, it still feels safer than the unknown. • ⛔ Terms like “chronic relapser” can shut down curiosity and growth — replacing them with language like “chronic ambivalence” invites exploration and self-kindness. • 🌪️ Recovery often feels like pressing the gas and the brake at the same time — you want to grow, but fear, beliefs, or unprocessed grief can hold you back. • 🛠️ Even "maladaptive" behaviors are skills — they were practiced over time. With intention and compassion, new habits can be learned the same way. • 🔍 Behaviors like bingeing after a win, or striving for perfection, are clues — not failures. Ask, “What is this trying to tell me?” • 👥 Connection is key — community and co-regulation help us see progress we can’t always witness in ourselves.   Clinician Gems: • “There’s no such thing as self-sabotage — only unmet needs and unprocessed fear.” • “Recovery takes courage, not perfection.” • “We don’t erase progress with a slip. Practice doesn’t disappear.” • “The goal isn’t a perfect streak — it’s the pattern of returning.”   We Want to Hear From You! What landed for you in this episode? Do you resonate with the term self-sabotage — or are you ready to retire it too? Send your feedback, topic suggestions, or stories to: foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com   Transform Within Workshop: https://sweetsobriety.newzenler.com/courses/transform-within   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.  

In this powerful and deeply nuanced episode, Dr. Vera Tarman and Molly Painschab welcome back Dr. David Wiss to explore one of the most important—and often misunderstood—topics in the field: the intersection of food addiction and eating disorders. With his unique background in both nutrition and public health, Dr. Wiss walks us through the historical divide between the food addiction and eating disorder communities, the philosophical and clinical tensions between rigidity and flexibility, and how trauma, ACEs, and access to food complicate both diagnosis and treatment. Whether you're a clinician confused about how to distinguish between binge eating, bulimia, and food addiction, or someone in recovery navigating your own lived experience, this episode is a must-listen. 👥 Topics Covered: Is it an eating disorder, food addiction—or both? Historical roots of the FA vs. ED divide Why rigidity is seen as both the problem and the solution The role of trauma, ACEs, and structural inequality How clinicians can use timelines and clinical intuition in treatment Why a continuum model offers more inclusive care Ethical considerations in individualized vs. cookie-cutter treatment The Wise Mind Nutrition app is a middle-ground tool for healing 💬 Key Quotes: “Everyone has a different neuropsychiatric profile… There isn’t a manual that’s going to work for all people.” – Dr. David Wiss “We’re not just dealing with food. We’re dealing with trauma, access, systems, and stories.” – Molly Painschab “Both food addiction and eating disorders have valid truths—and both need a seat at the table.” – Dr. Vera Tarman 🧠 About Our Guest: Dr. David Wiss Dr. David Wiss is a registered dietitian nutritionist and mental health researcher who has worked with more than 1,000 patients over the past 12 years. He is the founder of Nutrition in Recovery, and a global leader in the field of nutrition for addiction recovery and disordered eating. Dr. Wiss holds a PhD in public health from UCLA, and his work bridges the gap between neurological, psychological, behavioral, and nutritional sciences. He has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed papers, contributed six book chapters, and continues to challenge outdated approaches to mental health and nutrition. Dr. Wiss is also the creator of the Wise Mind Nutrition app—an innovative platform that provides education, food logging, reflection tools, and clinician interaction for individuals working on their mental wellness through nutrition. He is passionate about social justice, the gut-brain connection, and empowering people to heal themselves through informed, compassionate, and personalized care. 📍 Learn more: https://wisemindnutrition.com 📲 Resources Mentioned: Wise Mind Nutrition App From Evolution to Revolution: Food Addiction in Context (Frontiers in Psychiatry) The D-FANG Model: Disordered Eating and Food Addiction Nutrition Guide “Separating the Signal from the Noise” – David Wiss’s trauma-informed research 📣 Connect with Us: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Send your questions, reflections, or topic suggestions—let's keep the conversation going!   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.

In this powerful episode of Food Junkies, we dive deep into the intersection of food insecurity and food addiction with special guest Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis. Dr. Parnarouskis, a researcher specializing in food addiction and public health, shares groundbreaking insights on how socioeconomic factors and access to food impact addiction-like eating behaviors. From her research at the Food and Addiction Science and Treatment Lab to her latest studies on the role of stress, intermittent access to food, and ultra-processed food consumption, Dr. Parnarouskis sheds light on the social justice implications of food addiction. Together, we explore the barriers faced by food-insecure individuals, how stress amplifies cravings, and what clinicians, policymakers, and society can do to create lasting change. 🔑 Key Topics Discussed: Dr. Parnarouskis' journey into food addiction research The strong link between food insecurity and food addiction (people experiencing food insecurity are almost four times more likely to struggle with food addiction) How stress, financial fear, and limited access to whole foods reinforce addiction-like eating patterns The withdrawal experience in food-insecure populations and how it mirrors other addictive substances Why policy-level interventions—like expanding SNAP benefits, increasing access to whole foods, and regulating the food industry—are critical for preventing and addressing food addiction The importance of harm reduction and meeting individuals where they are in recovery How clinicians can screen for food insecurity and adjust interventions to be more compassionate and effective 🌍 Why This Conversation Matters: Food insecurity is not just about hunger—it’s about the quality of food available, the stress of not knowing where your next meal comes from, and the long-term effects of relying on ultra-processed foods. Dr. Parnarouskis emphasizes that food addiction is not just a personal responsibility issue—it’s a systemic issue that demands policy changes, social support, and a more compassionate approach to treatment. 📚 About Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis is a clinical psychologist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Drexel University Center for Weight, Eating, and Lifestyle Science. She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Michigan and her predoctoral internship at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Parnarouskis’ research seeks to understand the role of economic marginalization in developing and treating overeating concerns, to inform novel clinical and policy interventions. 📩 Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on social media using #FoodJunkiesPodcast please email us: foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com Thank you for listening! If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help us spread the message of food addiction recovery. 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.    

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Food Junkies, CJ sits down with her friend and colleague, Sharon Gregg, to explore Sharon’s deeply personal story of food addiction and recovery. From childhood dreams of streets paved with chocolate to decades of yo-yo dieting and the relentless voice of sugar calling her name, Sharon’s story is one many will find achingly familiar. Sharon opens up about her early experiences with dieting, the cultural messages around food and body image she absorbed, and how her battle with sugar addiction intensified during menopause. Listen as Sharon shares how a life-changing retreat helped her uncover the role of ultra-processed foods in her health struggles—and how understanding the science of addiction gave her the key to breaking free from the sugar cycle. CJ and Sharon also dive into: The challenges of overcoming sugar addiction in a world where moderation is idolized. How menopause became a turning point in Sharon’s search for wellness. The hidden emotional patterns behind food cravings, stress eating, and weekend “white-knuckling.” The grief and freedom of letting go of "drug foods" and the unexpected joys of recovery. Plus, Sharon shares her practical recovery tools—from mindful movement and community support to her love for throwing pots (yes, pottery!). Whether you’re struggling with food yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a candid look at how food addiction impacts the mind, body, and spirit—and how healing is absolutely possible with the right support and self-compassion. Feel free to join our supportive community on Facebook: Sugar-Free for Life Support Group - where we believe "I'm Sweet Enough." If you're considering personalized assistance, CJ, a Certified Addiction Professional specializing in Food Addiction, is here for one-on-one coaching. Reach out to CJ at cjnguy@myfoodaddictioncoach.com  Interested in sharing your recovery story on our show? We'd love to hear from you! Please email FJRecoverystories@gmail.com  If you find inspiration in recovery narratives, you won't want to miss the Food Junkies Podcast. Check it out at https://www.foodjunkiespodcast.com/.    

In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, Dr. Vera Tarman speaks with Dr. Donald Weaver, a world-renowned expert on Alzheimer’s disease, its causes, and its treatment. Dr. Weaver, a Canadian neurologist, chemist, and researcher at the University of Toronto, has made significant contributions to our understanding of cognitive diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s. His groundbreaking work suggests that Alzheimer’s is not just an inherited brain disorder but also an autoimmune condition triggered by environmental toxins, including metals, plastics, pesticides, and—most relevant to our discussion—ultra-processed foods. Join us as we explore the science of Alzheimer’s, the role of diet in brain health, and what we can do to prevent cognitive decline. Dr. Weaver will discuss the inflammatory effects of ultra-processed foods, the role of the immune system in Alzheimer’s, and how diet is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for this devastating disease. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Dr. Weaver’s journey into neurology and Alzheimer’s research, including a personal story that shaped his career. ✔️ Why Alzheimer’s is not just one disease but a collection of related disorders. ✔️ The role of inflammation and the immune system in developing Alzheimer’s. ✔️ How ultra-processed foods contribute to brain inflammation and cognitive decline. ✔️ The similarities between Alzheimer’s and autoimmune diseases. ✔️ Why head trauma, air pollution, and diet are major risk factors. ✔️ How diabetes and obesity increase the likelihood of Alzheimer’s and why some researchers call it “Type 3 Diabetes.” ✔️ The potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic) to reduce Alzheimer’s risk. ✔️ Why it’s never too late to make dietary changes to protect brain health. ✔️ The latest research on potential treatments and vaccines for Alzheimer’s. Key Quotes: 🧠 “Diet is the most important modifiable risk factor for Alzheimer’s.” – Dr. Donald Weaver 🧠 “Your brain is what makes you—you. Your memories define you. Alzheimer’s is one of the most devastating diseases of the brain.” – Dr. Donald Weaver 🧠 “It’s never too late to protect your brain. Delaying Alzheimer’s by just five years can mean more time with your loved ones.” – Dr. Donald Weaver Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring you more incredible conversations on the science of food addiction and recovery.   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.

Hosts Clarissa Kennedy and Molly Painschab explore the critical theme of belonging in recovery. They discuss the concept of "othering"—feeling unseen, unheard, or misunderstood—and its deep impact on individuals in their healing journeys. The episode is framed around a powerful quote from George Orwell about the loneliness of being misunderstood, setting the stage for a rich discussion on attachment, connection, and the need for belonging. Clarissa and Molly share personal experiences of feeling different, whether in family dynamics, social settings, or recovery groups. They examine how attachment styles—secure, avoidant, anxious, and disorganized—shape our ability to connect with others. Understanding these patterns can help individuals navigate relationships and cultivate deeper connections. They also highlight the essential role of nervous system regulation in recovery, emphasizing the power of co-regulation—where we find safety and grounding in connection with others. The discussion broadens into various forms of belonging, including interpersonal relationships, collective experiences, casual encounters, symbolic bonds, esteem-building, and contemplative practices. The episode concludes with encouragement for those feeling isolated in their recovery journey. The hosts remind listeners that belonging is cultivated over time and that finding one’s community may take patience and effort. They stress the importance of honoring one’s truth, setting boundaries, and staying open to new connections. Key Takeaways: The Pain of "Othering" – Feeling unseen and misunderstood can be isolating, but it’s a common experience, especially in recovery. Attachment Styles Impact Belonging – Secure attachment fosters deep connection, while avoidant or anxious styles can make relationships challenging. Nervous System Regulation Through Connection – Belonging and co-regulation with others help soothe the nervous system and support healing.  Six Ways to Cultivate Belonging: Interpersonal Relationships – Quality connections with family, friends, and recovery groups. Collective Experiences – Participating in group activities or shared traditions. Casual Encounters – Everyday interactions that remind us of our place in the world. Symbolic Bonds – Connecting through shared identities, cultures, or symbols. Esteem-Building – Feeling valued through contributions and recognition. Contemplative Practices – Finding connection through nature, mindfulness, and self-reflection. Vulnerability and Authenticity Foster True Belonging – Sharing personal stories and being open can create deep connections. Belonging is Not About Fitting In – It’s about being seen and accepted as you are, not changing yourself to match others’ expectations. Recovery Requires Courage to Stand Alone at Times – Not everyone will understand your journey, but staying true to yourself is essential. Finding Your People Takes Time – Your community is out there. Keep showing up, being authentic, and honoring your truth. Connect With Us: Have thoughts on this topic? Email us at foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com. We’d love to hear your experiences and suggestions for future episodes! Closing Thoughts: Your journey is valid. You are worthy of belonging exactly as you are. Keep searching for your community—they exist, and they will welcome you with open arms. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform. Thanks for listening! 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.