The Kick Sugar Coach Podcast

When Dr. Philip Ovadia tipped the scales into morbid obesity, he knew something had to give. That realization sparked a revolution in his medical practice and personal health philosophy, leading to profound insights that he shares with us in our latest episode. Join us as we sit down with the heart surgeon and author who is on a mission to keep people off his operating table. Dr. Ovadia recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his brother's diabetes diagnosis and his own health scare, which led him to challenge the conventional wisdom on diet and disease.The landscape of healthcare is shifting beneath our feet, and Dr. Ovadia is one of the trailblazers navigating new territory. We engage in a candid discussion about the emergence of doctors who are breaking away from traditional medical models in favor of holistic, evidence-based approaches to health. The conversation reveals the obstacles these pioneers face, from professional risks to the exhilaration of embracing telemedicine and the growth of supportive societies. This episode is an eye-opener on the importance of aligning with a healthcare provider who shares your values, and the empowerment that comes from taking charge of your health journey.Sugar, that sweet but dangerous culprit in the narrative of heart disease, takes center stage as Dr. Ovadia helps us unravel its controversial history. We dissect the mechanisms through which sugar and insulin resistance wreak havoc on cardiovascular health, and discuss the dietary complexities that influence our well-being. From plant-based regimens to low-carb and carnivore diets, we examine the misconceptions and truths about what really serves our hearts. Dr. Ovadia's transformative story and expert insights will arm you with the knowledge to take proactive steps toward better health, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to make meaningful lifestyle changes.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever considered that your sweet tooth might be an ancient survival mechanism playing tricks on you? Join us as Eric Edmeades, an expert in nutrition and lifestyle change, shares his transformative journey to a sugar-free life, and offers insights that could lead you to your own health revolution. Through a captivating discussion, Eric reveals the evolutionary roots of our sugar cravings and how the modern food industry has hijacked these primal urges to our detriment. You'll be equipped with science-backed strategies to conquer those sugar cravings that our ancestors could never resist. We also tackle the often-overlooked role of fasting in recovery, the success stories emerging from Eric's WildFit program, and how these insights are revolutionizing the way we think about food addictions and eating disorders. And as we wrap up, we'll face the harsh truths about lifestyle diseases and the food industry's role in public health—leaving you with a renewed sense of responsibility and empowerment to take control of your health journey. Join us for a deep and impactful exploration of what it means to eat, heal, and live well in today's world.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Prepare to unravel the mysteries of sugar's impact on our health with none other than Dr. Richard Johnson, a leading expert who's spent a quarter-century at the frontier of metabolic research. In our riveting conversation, Dr. Johnson exposes how sugar, particularly fructose, is not just a sweet treat but a key player in the development of metabolic syndrome. His unexpected findings reveal how certain dietary sugars can actually lead to the internal production of fructose, even without direct consumption, potentially derailing our well-being.Our discussion takes a surprising turn as we examine the ordinary elements of our diet that contribute to obesity. Learn about the startling connection between high glycemic carbs, salt, and their combined effect on weight gain and overeating. Dr. Johnson's insights on the importance of hydration will make you reevaluate every salty snack and underscore the substantial role proper water intake plays in metabolic health. His practical tips provide a roadmap to managing uric acid levels and sidestepping the health risks associated with today's sweet-centric diet.Closing the episode, we reflect on the broader implications of our findings with Dr. Johnson's poetic musings on the allure and perils of sugar from his book. This poignant ending encapsulates our deep dive into the transformative power of lifestyle alterations and the hopeful prospect of emerging treatments in the battle against metabolic diseases and beyond. Whether you're looking to revamp your diet or simply gain a deeper understanding of the food you consume, this episode is an eye-opening journey through the science of sugar's intricate dance with our health.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever found solace in the sweetness of sugar, only to discover it's a double-edged sword that cuts deep into the fabric of emotional well-being? Karly Pitman joins us today — whose journey through eating disorders and deep dive into neuroscience and attachment theory sheds light on our complex relationship with food. Throughout our revealing conversation, Carly helps us understand how self-compassion and empathy are key in transforming the way we interact with food, especially sugar, and how these insights can empower us in the recovery process.This episode is an invitation to reflect on the cyclical nature of healing. We emphasize that your journey need not be a solitary one, and that opening doors to healthier coping mechanisms while closing those that harm us is part of the healing process. Karly and I explore the essence of our true selves—compassionate, loving, and kind—distinct from the critical inner voices that often plague us. By embracing this journey to self-compassion, we learn to internalize our experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and, ultimately, a more peaceful state of being.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Unlock the hidden truths about sugar's role in cancer as we sit down with chemist Dr. Lewis Cantley, whose work on the PI3K enzyme has revolutionized our understanding of this sweet substance's dark side. Picture a world where sugar isn't just a harmless treat but a trigger for one of today's leading health adversaries. This episode takes you on a journey through Dr. Cantley's personal dietary choices, stemming from his own health experiences, to his groundbreaking research that connects the dots between sugar intake, insulin spikes, and cancer cell proliferation. It's a narrative that not only sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of the Warburg effect but also opens the door to potential dietary interventions in chronic disease management.As we navigate the complexities of insulin resistance and its implications for both diabetes and cancer, we discover the pivotal discoveries in Dr. Cantley's lab. Here, the connection between high insulin levels and cancer risk emerges with startling clarity, as does the life-changing impact of insulin's discovery on diabetes treatment. This episode doesn't just leave you with alarming insights; it arms you with the knowledge needed to challenge dietary norms and embrace a path to longevity through informed nutrition. Join us as we dissect the profound impact of lifestyle choices on cancer risks, and learn how a simple decision at the dinner table could drastically alter your health's trajectory.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever reached for a sugary treat to find comfort during stressful times? Luis Mojica, a somatic experiencing practitioner and holistic nutritional counselor, joins us to unravel his own spiral into sugar addiction against a backdrop of childhood trauma and chronic health challenges. Grappling with PTSD and Tourette's syndrome, Luis candidly shares how he sought solace in the sweetness of sugar, only to discover that his refuge was, in fact, reinforcing his struggles. His transformative journey sheds light on the complex interplay between our emotional state, food choices, and the path to recovery.Luis guides us through the labyrinth of how our bodies react to trauma, seeking balance in ways that can lead to harmful addictions, like that of sugar. This episode peels back the curtain on the body's survival responses and how they can be triggered not just by external threats, but by internal turmoil and suppressed emotions. We talk about food as a communicator, capable of sending powerful signals that influence our stress responses and emotional well-being. Luis's insights into the biological and psychological impact of trauma are a testament to the importance of understanding the nuanced relationship between what we eat and how we feel.Beyond the physiology of addiction, we touch on the potent role of somatic practices in fostering body awareness and emotional processing. Luis introduces us to techniques like pendulation, which can help us navigate through discomfort and find equilibrium. If you're looking for a beacon of hope in the often overwhelming journey to overcome sugar addiction and heal from trauma, this conversation with Luis Mojica offers a compelling blend of personal narrative, scientific exploration, and practical advice that could change the way you perceive and engage with your body and your cravings.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

This week on our podcast, we sit down with the renowned Dr. Robert Lustig, a leading expert in pediatric endocrinology, who shares his enlightening insights on the detrimental effects of sugar on our health. Dr. Lustig takes us beyond the surface-level discourse on diet and calories, diving deep into the biochemical and environmental intricacies that fuel metabolic diseases.Key Highlights from the Episode:The Toxic Truth About Sugar: Discover how sugar goes beyond being a simple calorie source to acting as a toxic substance that can lead to obesity, diabetes, and a spectrum of metabolic dysfunctions.Rethinking Obesity: Dr. Lustig challenges the outdated 'calories in, calories out' narrative, advocating for a nuanced understanding of obesity through the lens of biochemical processes like the carbohydrate-insulin hypothesis.Environmental Factors and Metabolic Health: Learn about the critical role of environmental pollutants in metabolic diseases and the urgent need for a holistic approach to detoxify our surroundings for better metabolic health.The Nature of Addiction: Uncover the neurological impacts of sugar and how addictive behaviors, especially sugar addiction, can perpetuate a cycle of poor health choices.A Call to Action: Be inspired by Dr. Lustig's call to take charge of your health by recognizing the fallacies of the food industry and making informed choices towards a diet of real, whole foods.This episode is a call to revolutionize our health paradigms and make informed choices that benefit not only ourselves but society as a whole. Dr. Lustig's groundbreaking insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to escape the sweet deception that has long ensnared our society.Tune in to this eye-opening episode and embark on a journey towards a healthier, sugar-conscious lifestyle. Together, we can challenge long-held beliefs and embrace the truth for a brighter, healthier future.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Could giving up sugar and flour change your life? Chef AJ joins me to share her transformative journey to health through a whole food, plant-based diet, and inspires us to consider the profound effects that cutting out these addictive substances could have on our well-being. Chef AJ's four-decade commitment to this lifestyle and her insights on food addiction offer an enlightening perspective on how we approach our eating habits. From her experience, we learn the healing power of whole foods, and she challenges us to experiment with eliminating sugar, flour, and alcohol to witness their impact firsthand.The road to recovery from addiction is a challenging one, but it's a path I've walked myself, and I open up about my own health scare that led to a complete dietary overhaul. We discuss how environments like the Optimum Health Institute can pave the way to a cleaner, more vibrant life, free from the shackles of food addiction. This episode is filled with compelling stories of individuals who've reclaimed their health by embracing nutrient-dense foods, particularly the superheroes of the vegetable world: dark, leafy greens. We delve into practical tips and celebrate the empowering sense of community that surrounds those who choose sobriety from addictive foods.Addressing the societal pressures and the marketing trap of sugar, we take a hard look at how processed foods and sugary treats are pushed upon us, especially children, creating a cycle of dependency from a young age. We discuss how changing our food environment can make a significant difference in overcoming addictions and highlight the need for education and support systems. From the backstory of how I kicked my own health into high gear to Chef AJ's infectious enthusiasm for fitness and whole foods, we offer a candid, motivational dialogue that invites you to start your own journey towards a healthier, addiction-free lifestyle.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

When the wisdom of the body meets the complexity of trauma and addiction, profound healing can begin. This is the message that Jan Winhall, an experienced trauma and addiction psychotherapist, brings to our latest conversation. With her Felt Sense Polyvagal Model, Jan offers a paradigm shift, viewing addictive behaviors as adaptive strategies for managing dysregulated states. Throughout our discussion, she dismantles the traditional brain disease narrative, instead celebrating the body's innate intelligence and advocating for a treatment approach that respects its capacity for self-regulation.Triggers, those emotional tripwires, are typically seen as obstacles, but what if we viewed them as signals pointing us toward deep-seated healing? Jan guides us through this reframe, leveraging the polyvagal theory to decode the language of our nervous system. The journey through ventral, dorsal, and sympathetic states illuminates the intricate dance of our reactions to stress and trauma, with Jan's insights offering a map to navigate these complex territories. By embracing and understanding our body's responses, we open the door to a life more authentically lived and aligned with our true self.But what does the path to recovery from addiction and trauma really look like? Jan paints a picture of resilience and hope, emphasizing the importance of neuroplasticity and the human capacity to rebuild and recover. She stresses that setbacks are not failures but part of a continuing story of growth, and how communities can become safe nests that foster healing and connection. By the end of our profound exploration, it's clear that understanding our neurophysiology can free us from the grip of fear, offering a beacon of hope to anyone entangled in the complexities of addiction and trauma.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Discover what happens when the seductive sweetness of sugar meets the science of addiction, as we sit down with Dr. Nicole Avena. Her illuminating research uncovers the alarming parallels between our cravings for sugar and the intense grip of drug addictions. Our discussion takes you deep into the mechanisms of the brain that are hijacked by sugar, reshaping everything we thought we knew about our daily diets. Dr. Avena's new book, "Sugarless," offers a compelling seven-step plan to escape the sugar snare, revealing that the battle against sugar addiction isn't just about willpower—it's about understanding the hidden forces at play in our food and our brains.If you've ever found yourself reaching for just one more sweet treat despite your best intentions, then this episode will resonate with you. We tackle the controversial intuitive eating movement and its clash with the realities of sugar's addictive nature. It's an eye-opening discussion on the necessity of awareness, and for some, a sugar-free path akin to abstinence from other addictive substances. We question the societal norms around processed foods and investigate the deceptive nature of artificial sweeteners. All this, while providing you with the knowledge to discern between the true needs of your body and the false hunger crafted by sugar's allure.Armed with Dr. Avena's expert guidance, we round out our chat with actionable steps to regain control over sugar consumption. The transformative journey to a sugarless life isn't a straight line, and we explore the value of patience, resilience, and self-compassion in this process. From revamping nighttime routines to handling social pressures, we share invaluable strategies that promise to empower you in rewriting your food narrative. Join us as we champion a movement towards a healthier, more informed future, one where sugar no longer holds the reins of our well-being.Enjoyed this episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your feedback with us here!Support the showFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE