Food Junkies Podcast

In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, hosts Dr. Vera Tarman and Clarissa Kennedy dive into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Corinde Wiers, an expert in addiction and brain science. Dr. Wiers shares her insights on using the ketogenic diet as a tool for managing cravings related to addiction, not only for alcohol but possibly food as well. We explore how the brain’s metabolism shifts in addiction and the promising role of ketones in stabilizing withdrawal symptoms. Key Discussion Points: Dr. Corinde Wier’s journey into the field of addiction and neuroscience. The brain’s reliance on alternative energy sources (acetate) during chronic alcohol use and how the keto diet can provide crucial support during alcohol withdrawal. How a ketogenic diet might reduce the need for benzodiazepines during alcohol detoxification and decrease alcohol cravings. The impact of a keto diet on brain function and cravings for both alcohol and food. Exploring future research on the ketogenic diet’s effects on other addictions and the potential role it could play in long-term recovery. Guest Bio:  Dr. Corinde Wiers obtained her PhD in psychology from the Berlin School of Mind and Brain and is an assistant professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Center for Studies of Addiction. With expertise in functional MRI and PET imaging, Dr. Wiers has contributed to groundbreaking research on addiction and brain energetics, making her a leader in the field.   Connect with Dr. Corinde Wiers: https://www.med.upenn.edu/apps/faculty/index.php/g332/p9389303   Sweet Sobriety Foundations   If you're curious about the intersection of nutrition and addiction recovery, don't miss this deep dive into the science behind using the ketogenic diet to control cravings. Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!   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.    

Karen is a fierce spirit with an unwavering determination to overcome challenges. Her own journey of resilience has fueled a passionate desire to help others find their way to recovery. With a heart full of empathy and a mind full of strategies, Karen is a beacon of hope for those struggling to break free from addiction. Her unwavering belief in the power of human potential inspires others to fight for a brighter future.   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 and Molly Painschab sit down with Anna Fruehling, co-founder of SUGARx Global and a powerful voice in the food addiction recovery space. Anna shares her personal journey through addiction, recovery, and her mission to help others overcome their struggles with sugar and ultra-processed food addiction. With over 35 years of recovery from drug addiction and eight years clean from food addiction, Anna brings a wealth of experience, both personal and professional, to the conversation.  Key Takeaways:  Anna’s Journey to Recovery    - Anna’s battle with addiction began in childhood, growing up in San Francisco, where she was introduced to drugs at an early age. Her journey to recovery started at 17, but it took many years for her to recognize the role of sugar addiction in her life.    - Anna’s "aha moment" came after hearing Bitten Jonsson speak about sugar as a gateway drug, sparking a realization of the connection between her sugar consumption and addictive behaviors.  Healing through Keto & Primal Eating:    - As a certified health coach and primal health advocate, Anna shares how lowering her carbohydrate intake and adopting a keto lifestyle brought peace to her mind and body.    - She credits keto for helping manage her autoimmune conditions, keeping her away from medications for years, and improving her overall mental and physical health.  The Creation of Sugar X Global:    SUGARx Global was founded by Anna, Judy, and Dave to provide group-based support for those battling food addiction. Anna emphasizes the power of community and the effectiveness of group recovery over individual coaching.    - The platform offers structured support, including the **Recovery Accelerator Program**, an 18-week course designed to help individuals deeply explore their addiction and develop sustainable strategies for long-term recovery. Philosophy of CARE:    - Anna introduces the CARE philosophy—focused on **Compassion, Accountability, Recovery Protection, and Education**. This philosophy guides the Sugar X approach, helping clients protect their recovery, plan for future challenges, and continue their education in addiction science. Mindset Shift for Recovery:    - Recovery isn’t just about abstinence; it’s about changing your mindset. Anna stresses that understanding the science behind addiction, recognizing automatic negative thoughts, and creating a personalized recovery journey is key to long-lasting success.  The Power of Group Support:    - Anna prefers working with groups rather than individuals, as group dynamics create a powerful environment where honesty, shared experiences, and collective growth can flourish. Anna’s Book - An Altered Spirit:    - Anna’s book, *An Altered Spirit: The Twelve Steps of Ebenezer Scrooge*, parallels the classic tale of Scrooge’s transformation and the 12-step recovery process. Proceeds from the book support children of alcoholics. Connect with Anna & SUGARx Global: - Website: https://www.sugarxglobal.com - Anna’s Book: An Altered Spirit: The Twelve Steps of Ebenezer Scrooge   Closing Thoughts: If you or someone you love is struggling with food addiction, this episode is a must-listen. Anna’s compassion, experience, and dedication to helping others create a powerful message of hope and healing.   Be sure to subscribe to the Food Junkies Podcast and stay tuned for more insightful conversations on food addiction recovery.   Have you enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts!   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.

Bethany Mazereeuw, MSW, is a Registered Social Worker in Ontario, Canada, with a Masters of Social Work specializing in recovery support. Bethany brings a compassionate and holistic approach to helping individuals navigate the challenges of addiction recovery, emotional well-being, and personal growth. She is passionate about integrating tools like the Enneagram and mindfulness techniques into her practice, offering clients tailored support that addresses their mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. Bethany's work emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, resilience, and fostering deep self-awareness. Her expertise in both group facilitation and one-on-one counseling allows her to create safe, nurturing spaces for those on their recovery journey. In addition to her clinical work, Bethany is dedicated to teaching and mentoring others in addiction recovery and personal growth. She has conducted workshops and has contributed to the Sweet Sobriety platform, where she offers guidance on how personality insights can play a pivotal role in long-term recovery. Bethany’s empathetic, growth-oriented approach empowers her clients to break free from harmful patterns and embrace a more fulfilling, balanced life. In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the Enneagram and its role in personal growth and recovery from food addiction. Bethany Mazereeuw, MSW provides an insightful introduction to the Enneagram, explaining how this system of nine personality types helps individuals understand the "why" behind their behaviors. We explore how the Enneagram offers a unique pathway for self-awareness and healing, making it a valuable tool in recovery. Key Takeaways: What is the Enneagram?: An arrangement of nine different personality types represented in a circular diagram. Each type reflects a different way of seeing the world and is shaped by experiences and upbringing. Triads of Intelligence: The Enneagram divides the nine types into three centers of intelligence—Heart (Feeling), Head (Thinking), and Body (Doing)—that shape how individuals process information and respond to the world around them. Difference from Other Personality Tests: Unlike assessments like Myers-Briggs, the Enneagram digs into the underlying motivations driving behavior and provides a roadmap for personal growth and self-awareness. Application in Recovery: Understanding your Enneagram type can provide insight into the deeper motivations behind addictive behaviors and offer specific growth paths to break free from ingrained patterns. Highlights: The Enneagram doesn’t just stop at identifying personality; it helps us understand the work needed to transcend our automatic behaviors and move toward greater emotional and spiritual health. Discussion on how Enneagram types align with different centers of intelligence—Feeling (Heart), Thinking (Mind), and Doing (Body)—and how these centers relate to how we interact with the world and approach recovery. Insights into how each Enneagram type responds to recovery strategies, like diet programs or emotional triggers, and how tailoring approaches can improve recovery outcomes. Practical Tips: Learn your Enneagram type by reflecting on your core motivations rather than just outward behaviors. Once you know your type, use it to become more aware of how you interact with the world and manage your recovery. Engage in "non-judgmental self-observation" to notice when you're acting from ego patterns and consciously choose healthier behaviors. Join Us: Check out our Sweet Sobriety Enneagram Workshops, Part 1 and Part 2, to explore how understanding your Enneagram type can accelerate your recovery journey. You’ll learn more about your number, access tools for growth, and connect with others on a similar path. Follow Bethany: Website: https://symplicated.com/sugar-free Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/declutter.your.diet/ Sign up for our next Enneagram Workshop   Thank You for Listening! If you found this episode helpful, please rate and review! Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on recovery and personal growth.   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, Dr. Vera Tarman and Clarissa Kennedy welcome Dr. Barry C. Smith, a former food industry consultant and an expert in sensory perception, to discuss his transition from working with ultra-processed foods to advocating for healthier eating alternatives. Dr. Smith shares his journey from studying philosophy and sensory perception to becoming involved in the food industry, where he provided insights into how we perceive taste and flavor. He reveals the complexities of multi-sensory perception and how the food industry uses this knowledge to enhance the desirability of processed foods. Dr. Smith delves into the interplay between our senses—taste, touch, smell, and even sound—and how these senses influence our eating experiences. He explains how texture and aroma can trick our brains into perceiving food as sweeter or more flavorful than it is, often leading to overconsumption. Dr. Smith also discusses his experiment of cutting out ultra-processed foods and its profound impact on his well-being, including reduced cravings and improved mood. The conversation touches on the ethics of the food industry, the challenges of regulating ultra-processed foods, and the importance of informed choices for consumers. Dr. Smith offers practical tips on enhancing the sensory experience of whole foods, making them more enjoyable and satisfying. Key Topics Discussed: The role of multisensory perception in flavor and taste How the food industry manipulates sensory experiences to enhance food desirability The challenges of reducing sugar, fat, and salt in processed foods while maintaining consumer appeal The impact of ultra-processed foods on health and well-being Dr. Smith’s journey of transitioning to a diet free from ultra-processed foods The importance of informed consumer choices and the need for better food regulation Memorable Quotes: "The brain often confuses smoothness with sweetness, which is why foods like chocolate and cream are so pleasurable." "Our experience of food begins long before it enters our mouths; it’s influenced by sight, smell, and even sound." "Cutting out ultra-processed foods changed my relationship with food—I wasn’t hungry all the time, and I felt better overall." Practical Tips: Experiment with the sensory aspects of whole foods, such as color, texture, and temperature, to enhance your eating experience. Be mindful of the ingredients in your food and how they affect your body and cravings. Consider how your environment and context influence your perception of food. Follow Dr. Smith: Twitter (X): https://x.com/smithbarryc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-smith-40585439/?originalSubdomain=uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barry.c.smith1/ 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.

CJ has the opportunity to talk to Hanalei Roberts a very determined and compassionate woman who has triumphed over adversity through long-term recovery. Her journey has instilled in her a deep-rooted empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by others. With unwavering strength and a supportive spirit, she has become a beacon of hope for those seeking a path to recovery. Her dedication to helping others is evident in her every action, making her a valuable asset to her community. 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/.  

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.  

Today CJ has the opportunity to speak with Kendall. Kendall is a contemplative soul on a profound journey of self-discovery. Deeply introspective and insightful, she possesses a unique ability to delve into the complexities of human experience. Her pursuit of self-discipline has become a cornerstone of her personal growth, shaping her into a resilient and focused individual. With a quiet determination, Kendall continues to explore the depths of her being, seeking wisdom and understanding along the way. 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/.  

Welcome to the Food Junkies Podcast! In today’s episode, your host, Dr. Vera Tarman, and co-host, Clarissa Kennedy, are thrilled to welcome Dr. Èvelyne Bourdua-Roy to the show. Dr. Roy is a highly respected family medicine physician with a wealth of knowledge and experience in treating patients with various health concerns, including those related to food addiction and recovery. Dr. Roy graduated from the University of Montreal in 2015 and from LaValle University in 2012, bringing a rich educational background and a compassionate approach to her practice. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of food addiction recovery, exploring how positive and negative expectations can shape the journey to better health. Dr. Roy shares her insights on the importance of flipping expectations, patient challenges, and practical strategies for building new, adaptive expectations that support lasting recovery. Whether you’re struggling with food addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in learning more about this critical topic, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice. Tune in to discover how shifting your mindset can be a powerful tool in overcoming food addiction and reclaiming your health. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Dr. Èvelyne Bourdua-Roy’s journey in medicine and her passion for helping patients overcome food addiction. The concept of flipping expectations and how it can transform the recovery process. Common challenges faced when trying to change expectations and how to overcome them. Practical tips for building realistic, adaptive expectations that support long-term recovery. The role of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and support systems in sustaining positive change. Find Dr. Èvelyne Bourdua-Roy: BOOKS  LinkedIn Twitter/X Connect with Us: Join our community on Facebook for ongoing support and discussions. Crush Your Cravings MasterClass Friday, August 23, 2024 https://crushyourcravings.institute/clarissa https://crushyourcravings.institute/molly Subscribe & Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Food Junkies Podcast and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and provide valuable content to those on their recovery journey. Thank You for Listening! We appreciate you tuning in and hope this episode helps you on your path to recovery. Stay strong, stay committed, and remember—you have the power to change your relationship with food and reclaim your life.   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 the Food Junkies podcast, Dr. Vera Tarman interviews Dr. Hala Lahlou, a leading obesity medicine physician based in Montreal, Quebec. Dr. Lahlou shares her journey into bariatric medicine, which began with her family medicine practice, where she noticed that many of her patients struggled with obesity and metabolic issues. This personal connection, along with her own experiences with obesity, motivated her to specialize in this field. Dr. Lahlou discusses the complex role of adipose tissue, explaining its function as an endocrine organ that plays a significant role in metabolism, immunity, and inflammation. She emphasizes that obesity is not merely a cosmetic issue but a serious health condition that can lead to various diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. The conversation also delves into the use of GLP-1 agonists and bariatric surgery as treatments for obesity. Dr. Lahlou explains that GLP-1 agonists, initially developed for diabetes treatment, are now being used to treat obesity because they help reduce food cravings and manage metabolic disorders. However, she also highlights the challenges, including side effects and the high cost of these medications. Dr. Lahlou also touches on the importance of screening for underlying conditions like ADHD, which can complicate weight management due to issues with impulse control and emotional regulation. She explains that ADHD, often underdiagnosed in obese patients, can contribute to food addiction and challenges in following structured weight loss plans. The episode concludes with Dr. Lahlou's thoughts on the future of obesity medicine, her focus on educating medical students and residents, and her hope for a more compassionate approach to treating obesity, recognizing it as a complex, multifaceted condition rather than a simple issue of willpower or discipline. Follow Dr. Lahlou: LinkedIn Diet Doctor   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.