Podcasts about food junkies

Fatigue. Brain fog. Cravings that never quit no matter how "good" you're eating. In this episode of Food Junkies, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with Dr. Carolyn Dean — MD, naturopath, and author of more than 50 books including The Magnesium Miracle — to unpack a piece of the addiction and recovery puzzle that rarely gets airtime: magnesium deficiency and its tangled relationship with yeast overgrowth, sugar metabolism, and chronic cravings. Dr. Dean has spent over five decades in integrative and functional medicine, and in this conversation she lays out her theory that a huge share of chronic symptoms — anxiety, insomnia, heart palpitations, muscle tension, even conditions mistaken for neurological disease — trace back to a mineral most conventional labs never test properly. She also digs into candida overgrowth, why restrictive diets like keto and carnivore may be working for reasons people don't realize, and why sugar cravings might be your gut asking for something other than sugar. This episode isn't a replacement for individualized medical or clinical treatment, and it isn't an endorsement of any product mentioned. As always, we encourage listeners to bring these questions to their own care team. In this episode, you'll learn: Why magnesium is required to produce ATP — the energy currency of every cell — and what happens when your body can't get enough The difference between a magnesium compound and a bioavailable magnesium ion, and why so many supplements underdeliver How soil depletion and modern agriculture have quietly lowered magnesium in the food supply over the past century The link Dr. Dean draws between candida/yeast overgrowth, leaky gut, and persistent sugar cravings Why she believes some people on restrictive diets (keto, carnivore, paleo) may be managing yeast overgrowth without realizing it The connection between sugar metabolism, vitamin C, and cardiovascular health Her recommended starting point for anyone wanting to address deficiency: diet, timing, and sequencing of supplementation About Our Guest Dr. Carolyn Dean, MD, ND is a physician and naturopath with over 50 years of experience in integrative and functional medicine. A graduate of Dalhousie University's medical school, she is the author of more than 50 books, including The Magnesium Miracle, Detox Your Body, and multiple works on sugar toxicity and mineral deficiency. Her clinical focus centers on magnesium, mineral absorption, and yeast overgrowth as root contributors to chronic fatigue, cravings, and metabolic dysfunction. Learn more: drcarolyndean.com Her product site: rnareset.com About Vanessa Kredler's Upcoming IFS Workshop:

In this episode of Food Junkies, Dr. Vera Tarman and Clarissa Kennedy sit down with Brian Baumal, a registered psychotherapist based in Toronto and owner of Aliva Psychotherapy, where he specializes in weight management, eating disorders, food addiction, and psychological support for bariatric surgery patients. Brian trained at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto and has been a licensed member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario since 2015. He's also a food addict in long-term recovery, having lost 100 pounds and kept it off for over 14 years. Brian shares the moment that changed his understanding of food addiction forever — an intense, addictive reaction to a piece of chocolate at a holiday party that made him realize this was on an entirely different scale than an ordinary craving. From there, the conversation dives deep into perfectionism: how shame and diet culture create an idealized, unrealistic self-image; the difference between adaptive perfectionism (using structure and tools in service of recovery) and toxic or maladaptive perfectionism (an all-or-nothing mindset that treats any slip as total failure); and how perfectionism can quietly become a "runaway train," redirecting obsessive focus from food onto weight, exercise, or other behaviors. Brian also explains how he uses a Gestalt therapy lens — treating what shows up in the room between therapist and client as the material for the work itself — to help clients build individualized, flexible recovery plans instead of rigid, punishment-driven rules. The group discusses distinguishing an addictive relapse from a psychological or shame-based slip, the role of relapse plans and "gathering data" after a slip, and why using tools (scales, timers, structure) isn't a sign of weakness but a sustainable part of long-term recovery. The episode closes with Brian's reflections on chairing the Sugar and Food Addiction Professionals Network, a free Facebook community of nearly 200 food addiction professionals offering training, research updates, and access to leading voices in the field. Topics Covered Brian's personal food addiction story and his "aha moment" with chocolate at a holiday party What Gestalt therapy is and how it approaches defense mechanisms relationally How shame and diet culture create unrealistic, idealized self-images Adaptive vs. maladaptive (toxic) perfectionism in recovery Perfectionism as a "runaway train" — when focus shifts from food to weight, exercise, or other behaviors Distinguishing an addictive relapse from a shame-driven psychological slip Building individualized, flexible abstinence and relapse plans Using tools (scales, timers, structure) without turning them into self-punishment Vulnerability factors: trauma, family food dynamics, anxious or over-controlled personality styles Adaptive perfectionism as flexibility, not the absence of high standards The Sugar and Food Addiction Professionals Network on Facebook Connect with Brian Baumal Website: Aliva Psychotherapy — https://alivapsychotherapy.com/ WORKSHOP LINKS:

CJ welcomes Lara, a former professional soccer player from Iceland, for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about food addiction and recovery. Lara began struggling with food at a very young age and recognized early that it was beginning to take over her life, even while competing as an elite athlete. She speaks with remarkable transparency about her experiences, their impact on her, and the path she has taken toward healing. Lara's willingness to share is so profound that she even wrote a book about her journey. CJ found her story fascinating and truly loved talking with her. 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 

CJ is joined today by Keren, a vibrant young woman whose passion for recovery and love of life shine through in everything she does. With an infectious enthusiasm and deep gratitude for her journey, Keren is dedicated to sharing her experience, strength, and hope with others who may be struggling. Her commitment to helping people has even inspired her to launch her own YouTube channel, where she openly documents her recovery journey and encourages others to keep going. Full of energy, honesty, and heart, Keren brings a refreshing perspective to the conversation and reminds us all that recovery can be filled with purpose, joy, connection, and hope. 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 

What if the voice urging you to binge isn't really you — and you could learn to talk back to it? This week, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Glenn Livingston, whose unconventional path from Fortune 500 food industry consultant to food compulsion researcher led him to develop one of the most distinctive frameworks in recovery: Never Binge Again. Glenn shares how his own 80-pound weight loss journey — and nearly 2,000 clients later — shaped a method built on structured food rules, cognitive refutation, and understanding the neuroscience of cravings extinction. In This Episode: Why Glenn left lucrative food industry work and what he saw from the inside about how hyperpalatable foods are engineered The "inner pig" framework — and why separating from the voice that drives bingeing is the foundation of his approach How his self-funded study of 40,000 people shaped his thinking (and why the results surprised him) The four food rule categories: Never, Always, Conditional, and Unrestricted Why 1 in 3 people genuinely need abstinence — and how to tell if you're one of them The extinction burst: why cravings often get worse before they disappear (and why this is actually good news) The "screw it, just do it" response — what causes it and how to address it with self-regulation Commit with perfection, forgive with dignity — how to handle slips without derailing recovery Abstinence vs. moderation: where Glenn agrees with food addiction models, and where his philosophy diverges His take on GLP-1 medications and how they fit into the bigger picture The difference between his original Never Binge Again and his newer book Defeat Your Cravings Resources Mentioned:

CJ is joined today by Peggy, whose story is as raw as it is relatable. From the age of six, Peggy began navigating a complicated relationship with food that would follow her into adulthood. She shares candidly about tying her worth to always having a boyfriend, and the deep need for validation that drove those choices. While she was able to walk away from cigarettes with ease, food proved to be a far more difficult battle. Through years of weight fluctuations and self-discovery, Peggy's authenticity shines. Her honesty, vulnerability, and insight will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to feel 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 

CJ welcomes Heather to the podcast, a guest whose bright, charismatic energy lights up the conversation from the start. Heather is exceptionally open and instantly warming, sharing her journey with honesty and heart. She speaks candidly about living with diabetes, her long battle with sugar and ultra-processed food addiction, and the moment everything changed,  when she realized she wanted to become a healthy, active grandmother for her grandchild. That love became her fuel for transformation. Heather's story is one of resilience, clarity, and choosing herself and her family again and again. I cannot wait for you to meet her. 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 

What if the key to understanding your relationship with food isn't willpower — it's neuroscience? In this fascinating episode, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with Dr. Rachel Herz, neuroscientist, leading expert on the psychology of smell, and author of Why You Eat What You Eat and That's Disgusting. From the evolutionary roots of disgust to why ultra-processed foods bypass our natural aversion responses, this conversation will genuinely change how you think about what ends up on your plate — and in your mouth. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why disgust is almost entirely learned — and what the one innate exception is The neuroanatomy of smell and why scent is so deeply tied to emotion and memory How one bad experience with a food can create a lifelong aversion (one-trial learning) The difference between disgust and fear — and why that distinction matters for disordered eating Why non-tasters may be more prone to overeating than super tasters How ultra-processed food is engineered to bypass our natural "this isn't real food" signals Whether disgust could be a therapeutic tool in changing our relationship with UPFs Why Dr. Herz believes disordered eating is psychological and behavioral — and where she and the Food Junkies team respectfully differ on the addiction model Practical, science-backed strategies for becoming more intentional around eating About Dr. Rachel Herz Dr. Rachel Herz is a neuroscientist and faculty member at Brown University, widely regarded as the world's leading expert on the psychology of smell. She is a TED 2019 and TEDx 2024 speaker, has published 108 peer-reviewed research articles, and serves as an expert witness in legal cases involving smell. She is the incoming president of the International Society of Neural Gastronomy. Her books include: Sensation and Perception (widely used neuroscience textbook) That's Disgusting: Unveiling the Mysteries of Repulsion — a New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice Why You Eat What You Eat: The Science Behind Our Relationship with Food — named among the best food books of 2018 by Smithsonian and The New Yorker Connect with Dr. Rachel Herz

Are you highly sensitive — and secretly using food to manage a world that feels like too much? In this episode, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with Esther Kane, MSW, a British Columbia-based psychotherapist with nearly 30 years of experience helping highly sensitive people (HSPs) break free from emotional eating and food addiction. Esther isn't just a clinician — she's an HSP herself who nearly died from an eating disorder and has spent decades figuring out what works. If you've ever been told you're "too sensitive," struggled to explain why food feels like your only relief, or burned out trying to take care of everyone but yourself — this one's for you.

What does it take to turn personal pain into policy change? In this episode, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with Chérie St. Arnauld, Executive Director of Metabolic Revolution and a passionate advocate for metabolic health, to explore the power of grassroots mobilization in the fight against ultra-processed foods. Chérie grew up in a household shaped by economic constraints and ultra-processed food. It was her sister's cancer diagnosis, and the radical dietary intervention that gave her 10 more years of life, that forever changed how Chérie understood the relationship between food and healing. Today, she's channeling that lived experience into one of the most dynamic grassroots organizations in the metabolic health space. In this conversation, Vera and Chérie explore what the food addiction and metabolic health communities can learn from each other, and what it actually looks like to build a movement from the ground up.

CJ has the privilege of sitting down with Kristy today. Today, I'm honored to introduce Kristy, a devoted homeschooling mom whose life is a powerful testimony of resilience, strength, and hope. Kristy once believed her struggles were simply about weight and exercise, never realizing she was battling food addiction. Through faith, courage, and deep self-discovery, she came to understand the root of her struggle and found freedom on the other side. She is unwavering in her belief that God carried her through every step of the journey. Now, she shares her story to encourage others, offering hope and lifting up anyone walking through addiction.   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 

Can you eat plant-based and still avoid sugar, carbs, and ultra-processed foods? In this episode of Food Junkies, Dr. Vera Tarman is joined by Adina Mullen, plant-based chef, author of Vegan Flavors of the World, and founder of Adina's Delicacies, to explore whether vegetarian or vegan eating can truly support food addiction recovery, low-sugar living, and even plant-based keto—without deprivation or rebound eating. Adina brings a deeply grounded, real-world approach to plant-based cooking rooted in whole foods, cultural traditions, flavor, and satisfaction. This conversation goes beyond diet rules to focus on nourishment, satiety, and sustainability, especially for people healing their relationship with food.

In this powerful episode of Food Junkies, we're joined by Amber Romaniuk, emotional eating and digestive health expert, to unpack the real drivers behind binge eating, food addiction, and the relentless restrict–overeat cycle. Amber shares her personal recovery journey from binge eating, bulimia, and food addiction—and explains why lasting healing requires more than another diet or food plan. Together, we explore how hormones, thyroid function, nervous system stress, and shame shape our relationship with food in ways most people are never taught. This conversation is especially important for women who feel like they "know better" but still struggle—and wonder why nothing seems to stick.

I literally recommend Dr. Vera Tarman's book, Food Junkies, second edition to everyone for whom I complete a pre-surgical evaluation. She has a 3rd edition coming out soon that will include information about food addiction and the use of GLP-1 medications. Food Junkies is a book anyone even remotely thinks they may have an addiction to food… whether it's sugar, carbs, highly processed foods… take a listen. And here's a little clue… if your life is being negatively impacted because of your relationship with food – regardless of your weight – think health, relationships, depression… any way food or weight is causing problems in your life… please read this book!The Weight Loss Winformation Podcast gives you essential psychological information to help you lose weight and more importantly, to help keep you at a healthy weight for your body! No matter how you are working to lose weight and no matter how much weight you want to lose, Weight Loss Winformation will keep you moving in a positive direction. Let's get started because well… Why Weight? (get it? Pun intended… )?Resources:·      BariAfterare: www.bariaftercare.com·      Connie Stapleton PhD website: www.conniestapletonphd.com·      BariAftercare website: https://www.conniestapletonphd.com/bariaftercare·      BariAftercare Facebook page (for members only): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BariAftercare·      Kevin Stephens: Your Bariatric Buddy   https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourbariatricbuddy/people·      Instagram: @ (Caleshia Haynes)·      Instagram: @therealbariboss (Tabitha Johnson)·      Instagram @drsusanmitchell (Dr. Susan Mitchell)·      Instagram: @lauraleepreston (Laura Preston)·      ProCare Vitamins (10% off with code ConnieStapleton)·      Rob DiMedio: https://www.busybariatrics.com/·      Dr. Joan Brugman: drjbrugman@outlook.com·      Dr. Tarman's Facebook group: Sugar Free For Life Support Group: I'm Sweet Enough. https://www.facebook.com/groups/SugarFreeForLife·      Food Junkies, Second Edition https://www.amazon.com/Food-Junkies-Recovery-Addiction/dp/1459741978

On today's episode, CJ sits down with the incredibly genuine and courageous Emalyn. Emalyn opens up about her journey with honesty and heart, from sneaking food and hiding her struggle from her husband to realizing that he had always offered unwavering support. She shares what led her to seek treatment in Minnesota and how that experience helped her finally release the shame and guilt she had carried for years. Emalyn's story is one of deep self-discovery, compassion, and freedom; a reminder that addiction isn't a moral failing but a condition we can understand, treat, and recover from. 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   

C J shares a moving conversation with Ashley Elizabeth, a woman whose honesty and courage shine through her recovery journey. Ashley is remarkably open about her experience with food addiction and the lifelong impact of being put on a diet at a very young age. Like so many, she spent years trapped in the cycle of obsession, shame, and the constant search for control, returning to foods she didn't even like just to get her fix. When Ashley first entered a 12-step program, she approached her food plan like another diet, and for a while, it worked. But true transformation came when she embraced the entire program and surrendered her will to her Higher Power. Today, Ashley shares her story with heart and hope, inspiring others to believe that freedom from food addiction is absolutely possible.

CJ welcomes Kat to the podcast! Kat's story is one of courage, honesty, and deep resilience. Having carried the heavy weight of trauma and the challenges of living with morbid obesity, she brings with her a fighter's spirit and a bubbly energy that shines through every word. Kat is refreshingly open about her struggles, and her willingness to share is matched only by her desire to lift up the next person walking a similar path. Today, we get to hear not only about her battles, but about her remarkable strength and the hope she brings to others. 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   

Send us a textSometimes seeing a close relative struggle through chronic conditions can spur someone to take action to help themselves and then others. I often find these stories to be inspiring.  Like the story we had of 250-pound middle schooler Nathan Maze in episode 277, who saw his dad battle obesity and decided not to follow the same path. He dropped the weight, got jacked in the gym, and then as a 15-year-old ran and completed the American Heroes Run marathon. In this episode, I have an uplifting chat with Jonathan Boulware, who lost his mother to obesity-related health issues which propelled his journey to lose weight himself and then help others achieve the same results. Wanting to head off the yo-yoing that many others have undergone in battling their weight, Jonathan studied how to make lifestyle changes by becoming a certified lifestyle coach, personal trainer, and nutrition coach. Following his own success, Jonathan has created many incredible tools to help others, including his 432 Playbook and his book Take Control of Your Body Before It Takes Control of You that demonstrate how to personalize your own lifestyle change plan. It's the same concept David had when he said that once he learned to first change himself, he could then help others change, and it opened the door for him to write his third book, Eat Sh*t and Die, Radical Rehab for Food Junkies and Sugar Addicts, which also gives a blueprint for changing your eating habits. In this fun and entertaining chat, Jonathan gives a lot of very practical insights into how to lose weight and keep it off. He is also putting into action how his own transformation has changed his life by competing soon in the Cal Tri LA Duathlon, which consists of a 5K run, 23-mile bike, and then a 10K run all strung together.Jonathan BoulwareYouCanBeatObesity.comLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-boulwareBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill Stahl and American Heroes Run for race photosInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signupSubscribe to our Substack for my archive of articles of coaching tips developed from my more than three decades of experience, wild and funny stories from my long coaching career, the wit and wisdom of David, and highlights of some of the best WASP episodes from the past that I feel are worthwhile giving another listen.Search either We Are Superman Podcast or @billstahl8

Christine Trimpe is a transformative wellness leader dedicated to empowering professional Christian women to reclaim their health and vitality through her faith-based, holistic approach to weight loss. As the founder of The SugarFreed Me Method and a certified SUGAR® Licensed Practitioner, Christine helps clients achieve lifelong healing from sugar addiction and food-related struggles. Her clients experience dramatic transformations, including sustained weight loss and breakthroughs in physical, emotional, and spiritual health, with over 80% retention in her programs.   After a personal 100-pound weight loss journey, Christine created a method that goes beyond conventional dieting, integrating faith, emotional regulation, and metabolic health principles. Christine's own story—marked by a significant health journey, an embrace of ketogenic eating, and a breakthrough lifestyle change—has inspired thousands since she first shared it on her blog and across social media. Her journey has been highlighted in leading wellness magazines, including Woman's World and First for Women, and featured on ⁦DietDoctor.com⁩, where she was named a top low-carb success story.   Key Takeaways Turning Points Matter – A single moment of frustration or physical limitation can become the catalyst for lasting change when paired with ownership and action. Small Steps First – Christine didn't overhaul her diet overnight. She began by removing obvious sources of sugar, then gradually tackled carbs like bread, pasta, and potatoes. Medical Clues Can Guide Recovery – A sleep apnea diagnosis, fatty liver disease, and hormonal concerns pushed her to seek deeper answers. Education Is Empowerment – Learning about insulin resistance through Dr. Jason Fung and others helped her connect the dots between her symptoms, cravings, and food choices. Freedom from Food Obsession – Letting go of “everything in moderation” and embracing abstinence from trigger foods brought lasting relief from cravings and secret eating. Faith as a Foundation – Daily Bible reading and spiritual reflection became Christine's source of true satisfaction and stability, replacing food as a coping mechanism. Social Strategies Work – She uses simple, non-judgmental responses when offered foods she avoids, focuses on connection over food, and prepares mentally before events. Recovery Evolves – What worked at one stage may shift with life changes (e.g., menopause), and flexibility paired with self-awareness supports long-term success. Planting Seeds – Helping others often means sharing your story without expectation, trusting that the right moment for change will come in their own timing.  

Dr. Cynthia Bulik is a clinical psychologist and one of the world's leading experts on eating disorders. She is the Founding Director of the University of North Carolina Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders and also the founder director of the Centre for Eating Disorders Innovation at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden. Dr. Bulik is Distinguished Professor of Eating Disorders in the Department of Psychiatry at UNC, Professor of Nutrition in the Gillings School of Global Public Health, and Professor of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Karolinska Institute.  Dr Bulik has received numerous awards for her pioneering work, including Lifetime Achievement Awards from the National Eating Disorders Association, the Academy for Eating Disorders, and the International Society of Psychiatric Genetics. She has written over 750 scientific papers, and several books aimed at educating the public about eating disorders.  Currently, Dr. Bulik's focus  is in the reconceptualization of eating disorders as being a metabo-psychiatric diseases. Food Junkies is keen to explore this interest in how metabolic disease plays a role in disordered eating: can this construct be the  common ground to start to understand the muddy waters  between eating disorders and food addiction?  In This Episode, You'll Learn:

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Food Junkies Recovery Stories CJ sits down with Joy M, who shares her courageous story of unraveling the illusion of the “perfect life” to find true recovery and emotional freedom. From childhood trauma and food obsession to substance use, codependency, and the sneaky nature of sugar addiction, Joy takes us through the winding—and at times wild—path she walked to reclaim her health and voice. Tune in to hear how one Easter basket sparked a lifetime pattern, how trauma flipped the switch, and how Joy finally broke free through community, curiosity, and a whole lot of compassion. Her story is a beautiful reminder that it's never too late to begin again—and that healing is possible, one real food choice at a time. Warning: You may leave this episode feeling inspired, understood, and ready to toss those “dang nuts.” 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 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.

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.

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 compelling episode of Food Junkies, we welcome Dr. Nick Norwitz, a researcher, educator, and metabolic health advocate whose mission is to "Make Metabolic Health Mainstream." Dr. Norwitz, a valedictorian from Dartmouth, PhD in Metabolism from Oxford, and an MD candidate at Harvard Medical School, shares his journey with severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease. This struggle led him to discover the life-changing power of a ketogenic diet. His transformation inspired his relentless curiosity to challenge outdated medical paradigms and explore cutting-edge research in metabolic health. We dive into some groundbreaking topics, including: ✅ The Connection Between Food Addiction and Viruses – Could a virus in your gut microbiome be influencing addictive food behaviors? ✅ Understanding Lean Mass Hyper Responders – Why do some people see their cholesterol skyrocket on a ketogenic diet? ✅ The Role of Individualized Nutrition – How n=1 experimentation can be the key to optimizing metabolic health. ✅ Debunking Cholesterol Myths – What's the truth about dietary cholesterol and heart disease? Dr. Norwitz also shares his famous “Oreo Experiment,” in which he lowered his cholesterol by eating Oreos—not as a recommendation but as a fascinating metabolic demonstration that challenges traditional assumptions about fat and carbohydrates. This conversation was so insightful and packed with science that we had to make it a two-part episode! Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll discuss dairy, olive oil, carnivore diets, and more.

Today, we have the honor of welcoming Adele to the podcast—a truly remarkable individual with a unique talent for exploring the contours of her inner world. Adele's gift for deep self-reflection allows her to navigate her emotions and motivations with a gentle, curious approach, inspiring creativity and uncovering possibilities that many of us might overlook. What makes Adele's story even more compelling is her journey to a life free from the grip of sugar—not through willpower or deprivation, but through mindful, intentional choice. She's cultivated an awareness of the subtle ways sugar weaves itself into our lives and has instead embraced the sweetness of experience, savoring life's richness without relying on fleeting, sugary highs. Adele's presence is more than inspiring—it's an invitation. An invitation to pause, reflect, and explore the depth of your own inner being. Together, we'll dive into her journey and imagine what a life of mindful sweetness could look like for all of us. Adele, welcome to the podcast. 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, CJ sits down with Sarah Hood, a Community Nurse from England, to explore her journey into the field of Ultra-Processed Food Addiction. With over 25 years of medical experience across England, Italy, Belgium, Kuwait, and Dubai, Sarah has witnessed countless patients struggling with food-related behaviors while also battling her own challenges with sugar dependency. Sarah shares the pivotal moment that changed her life—a chance encounter with a book at an airport that set her on the path to recovery and fueled her passion for helping others facing similar struggles. With a deep appreciation for the complexities of the recovery journey, Sarah discusses how sharing, community, and understanding physiology have played a critical role in overcoming personal challenges and supporting others on their road to healing. Join us for this inspiring conversation about the power of awareness, connection, and science in the fight against food addiction. 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 powerful episode of the Food Junkies podcast, host CJ Nguy sits down with Samantha Wendt, a Certified Master Herbalist and Certified Food Addiction Mentor, to discuss her incredible journey of recovery. Samantha opens up about her struggles with bullying, trauma, and sugar addiction and how these challenges impacted her health and well-being. Through holistic healing, spiritual growth, and unwavering determination, Samantha transformed her life, reclaiming her health and purpose. This episode is packed with raw vulnerability, valuable insights, and inspiring lessons on the importance of nourishing both body and soul. It's a heartfelt reminder that transformation is possible with the right mindset, support, and determination. 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 epsiode CJ interviews Alicea about her journey in food addiction and recovery. Alecia is a free spirit with an authentic and infectious energy. Her genuine nature draws people in, and her unwavering support makes them an invaluable mentor. Alecia's unique perspective and creative approach to life inspire those around them to embrace their true selves. With a heart full of compassion and a mind full of wisdom, she guides others on their journeys of self-discovery and personal growth. Together they emphasize the importance of community, support, and self-compassion in their healing processes. They also share their experiences with weight management, menopause, and different diets, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to recovery and the importance of understanding one's body and its changes. Lastly, they discussed the significance of routine, discipline, and patience in making changes towards a healthier lifestyle.  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/.  

On todays epsiode Cj interviews Janessa. Janessa is a visionary with a sharp mind and a heart of gold. Her insightful perspective allows her to see potential in every situation, while her driven nature fuels her to turn those visions into reality. Janessa isn't just about personal success; she's a fierce cheerleader for her community. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her unwavering support empowers those around her to reach for their goals. 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/.    

On todays podcast CJ interviews Alex Miller. Alex is a passionate advocate for sugar-free living and overcoming food addiction. After struggling with weight issues, low self-esteem, and being bullied throughout school, Alex spent years believing his struggles were due to a lack of self-control. A pivotal moment came when he watched the documentary Fed Up, which opened his eyes to the role of the food industry in promoting sugar-laden diets and its link to obesity and diabetes. In 2018, Alex decided to take his health seriously and turned to the Keto diet, focusing on cutting out sugar. Through clean eating, Keto, and fasting, he lost 165 pounds and discovered the power of food abstinence. Now, Alex shares his journey to inspire others who feel trapped by unhealthy eating habits, shedding light on the science behind food addiction and offering a message of hope: the problem isn't about willpower but finding the right tools to support a healthy lifestyle. 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/.      

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/.  

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/.  

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/.  

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.  

Kathy Williams has an MBA from Goizueta School of Business, Emry University and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cincinnat. She has also been certified by the University of Pittsburgh's Diabetes Prevention Program. As CEO of Williams ConsultlingGroup, Kathy is an author, speaker, health strategist and diabetic prevention advocate. She also has a private coaching practice where she helps clients eliminate their cravings and sugar addiction in 90 days.   Like many of us in the field, Kathy has her own personal story. From being prediabetic, she halted her prediabetic progression back to a normal blood sugar level, which she has maintained for over 10 years.  Notably - She was even able to help her son, a type ONE diabetic to reduce his insulin and greatly improve his blood sugar levels. This is far and beyond what most doctors can achieve. She did this with changing his diet. Clearly she has found a way to reach out to children as well as adults. Of interest to us at Food Junkies:, what can Kathy tell us about how to encourage and support families to live a sugar free life - in a world that equates love with sugar?  Follow Kathy: Connect with Kathy "Sugar Free Girl" Williams, your SUGAR SHRINK Free Health Transformation Call: https://link.pipelinepro.co/widget/booking/IIjTGPR0qpvImRcg69N2 Link to free resources: https://ilivesugarfree.com/links Website: https://ilivesugarfree.com/ Purchase the Book "Oh So Sweet to Live Sugar Free": https://ilivesugarfree.com/my-book The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcareprovider'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.        

Dr. Jananthan Paramsothy got his internal medicine training at Richmond University Medial Center in Staten Island New York. Additionally, he has worked as an anesthesiologist and critical care physician in Sri Lanka. He has published a number of peer reviewed articles, one on a study of auto brewery syndrome. He is also a student in the Executive MPH program at Yale School of Public Health.  We have heard alot about the microbiome and its possible role in food addiction. We at Food Junkies are interested to know what role gut fermentation syndrome might be contributing to our food addiction, as a result of the ultra processed foods that so many of us are eating.  The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcareprovider'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.  

The BRAND NEW 2nd Generation Tone Devices have launched!! Order HERE  Hi friends! This episode is on Why “Priming” is Not Good for Fat Loss & Body Recomposition, How To Fix Your Metabolism, Fasting and Feasting, Food Addition and More with Dr. Sarah Zaldivar  Sign up for the Exclusive Launch Discount of Tone Collagen Here! Everyone is loving Tone Protein! Scientifically formulated based on the science to support Muscle Protein Synthesis.  Click Here to Check it out! Get $50 OFF The Tone LUX Red Light Therapy Panels when combined with a pre-order for the new Tone LUX Crystal Mask - use the code TONELUXSAVE50 - Click HERE To Shop! - Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the facebook group for the podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017506024952802/ - Special thank you to our sponsor: Make Masszymes part of your daily routine this year, to help support optimal protein digestion and absorption! Go to www.bioptimizers.com/vanessa now and enter promo code VANESSA to get 10% off any order. - Dr. Vera Tarman, a medical addictions physician in Toronto, works with people who want to break their dependence on unhealthy foods. Over the last 20 years, she has been the medical director at a clinic that has served more than 10,000 patients, including 1,000 with food addictions. She is the author of Food Junkies – Recovery from Food Addictions (Second Edition). Her audiences have included more than 50,000 health care experts, medical professionals and people who learn how to break their food addiction through community and peer support. As a recovering food addict, she has maintained a 100-pound weight loss for more than 12 years and has been “clean” from sugar and flour for eight years. Link to Food Junkies book: https://amzn.to/2SeZyAw https://www.addictionsunplugged.com/blog/ - This podcast content does not constitute an attempt to practice medicine and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice and personal health questions. Prior to beginning a new diet you should undergo a health screening with your physician to confirm that a new diet is suitable for you and to out any conditions and contraindications that may pose risks or are incompatible with a new diet, including by way of example: conditions affecting the kidneys, liver or pancreas; muscular dystrophy; pregnancy; breast-feeding; being underweight; eating disorders; any health condition that requires a special diet [other conditions or contraindications]; hypoglycemia;   

The BRAND NEW 2nd Generation Tone Devices have launched!! Order HERE  This episode is all about a NEW paper on the 5 Stages of Food Addiction with Dr. Vera Tarman, author of Food Junkies and medical addictions physician in Toronto, Canada. Read her new paper HERE Everyone is loving Tone Protein! Scientifically formulated based on the science to support Muscle Protein Synthesis.  Click Here to Check it out! Get $50 OFF The Tone LUX Red Light Therapy Panels when combined with a pre-order for the new Tone LUX Crystal Mask - use the code TONELUXSAVE50 - Click HERE To Shop! - Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the facebook group for the podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017506024952802/ - Special thank you to our sponsor: Make Masszymes part of your daily routine this year, to help support optimal protein digestion and absorption! Go to www.bioptimizers.com/vanessa now and enter promo code VANESSA to get 10% off any order. - Dr. Vera Tarman, a medical addictions physician in Toronto, works with people who want to break their dependence on unhealthy foods. Over the last 20 years, she has been the medical director at a clinic that has served more than 10,000 patients, including 1,000 with food addictions. She is the author of Food Junkies – Recovery from Food Addictions (Second Edition). Her audiences have included more than 50,000 health care experts, medical professionals and people who learn how to break their food addiction through community and peer support. As a recovering food addict, she has maintained a 100-pound weight loss for more than 12 years and has been “clean” from sugar and flour for eight years. Link to Food Junkies book: https://amzn.to/2SeZyAw https://www.addictionsunplugged.com/blog/ - This podcast content does not constitute an attempt to practice medicine and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice and personal health questions. Prior to beginning a new diet you should undergo a health screening with your physician to confirm that a new diet is suitable for you and to out any conditions and contraindications that may pose risks or are incompatible with a new diet, including by way of example: conditions affecting the kidneys, liver or pancreas; muscular dystrophy; pregnancy; breast-feeding; being underweight; eating disorders; any health condition that requires a special diet [other conditions or contraindications]; hypoglycemia; 

Angela Morgan of Madison was feeling uninspired in her job a few years back. It was too rigid. So, she decided to take a huge risk and started her own business: Food Junkies Catering. In a partnership with Midwest Mujeres, WPR’s “Wisconsin Life” shares the stories of Morgan and five other women working to build community and better themselves in southern Wisconsin.

Welcome to Real Food Recovery, a podcast created by two lifelong processed food addicts with over 100 years of addiction (and recovery) between them. Paige Alexander and Jamie Morgan Reno use their Real Food Recovery podcast and social media channels to share their struggles, lessons learned, tools, tips, and resources that freed them from decades of food addiction, obsession, and loss.   In this episode, Paige and Jamie are honored to interview one of the original voices in the Food Addiction (and recovery) movement, Dr. Vera Tarman. Her book “Food Junkies” brought the concept of Food Addiction to society in a way that could not be ignored. Since that book's release 10 years ago, Dr. Tarman has been influential in the treatment and recovery from food addiction and obsession. Dr. Tarman reminds us that healing happens from the inside out and through connection and community we find the strength we need to recover. She wants everyone to know that HOPE is there and recovery is possible.    In every Real Food Recovery episode, Paige and Jamie take time to answer viewer questions about processed food addiction, obsession, and recovery, be sure to submit yours on their YouTube Channel or Facebook Page. You can also follow Real Food Recovery on Instagram (@realfoodrecovery4u), TikTok (@realfoodrecovery) or at www.realfoodrecovery4u.com.

Dr Naim Khan is Professor of Physiology (Exceptional Class) at Burgundy University, Dijon (France). He is Head of a research team on Nutritional Physiology & Toxicology, affiliated to Inserm Research Center (UMR1231). He is principal (co)authors of more than 250 research peer-reviewed articles. He is the Editor of Nutrients, PlosOne and J Clin Med. He has been visiting professor at U Chiba, Japan and U Cagliari, Italy. He is Fellow of Royal Society of Biology, UK. He has been Innolec laureate at Masaryk University, Czech Republic; awarded the Robert Naqué Prize by the Société de Physiologie (France); Nutrition & Food Excellence Prize by National Academy of Medicine (France) and nominated as Ambassador for Research by the Burgundy State (France). He founded a start-up “Ektah” that obtained the iLab Prize (France). Dr Khan has been Secretary General and is acting as Secretary for International Affairs at the Société de Physiologie (France). He is founding member of the African Society of Physiology and Physiopathology, Senegal. He is expert-member in different commissions like ATRBSA Algeria; National ANR France; InnovIris Belgium; National Agency for Food Security (Anses) France. He has been collaborating on obesity physiology with India, Morocco, Tunisia, Benin, Senegal and Ivory Coast. We at Food Junkies are especially interested in his review of the literature of fat addiction. 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, I have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Vera Tarman as our special guest. Her personal journey towards recovery is not only authentic but also incredibly inspiring. Our conversation delves into various aspects of recovery, exploring how her own path led to the creation of her book, "Food Junkies." Feel free to join our supportive community on Facebook: Sugar-Free for Life Support Group - where we believe "I'm Sweet Enough." https://www.facebook.com/groups/SugarFreeForLife/?mibextid=oMANbw 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  

Ohhh Food Junkies listeners do we have a super special episode and surprise for you today! In 2024 you are going to get MORE episodes of the food junkies podcast all based on personal recovery stories to motivate and inspire you. Today we are going to introduce you to your new co host of what we are calling Food Junkies: Recovery from Food Addiction Stories with CJ Nguy.  When CJ approached us with this idea to share personal stories of recovery from our listener base or from Vera's Sugar free for Life: I'm Sweet Enough Facebook group we loved the idea. What a beautiful way for people in our communities to share what they are doing and help spread the message that Recovery Is Possible. Food Junkies listeners will now get 2 bonus episodes a month of personal recovery stories and Spoiler Alert CJ will be interviewing each one of us first. In fact today she is taking a crack at it! Stay tuned. If you are interested in being a guest on this upcoming series please reach out to CJ at FJRecoveryStories@gmail.com and she will send you a link to the podcast guest form. So excited to support you more in 2024. Enjoy the show.  

Thank you so much Food Junkies listeners! We have reached episode 150 and we could not think of a better guest to celebrate it with than one of our favourite, mind blowing leaders in the field Dr. David Wiss. Dr. Wiss became a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) in 2013 and founded Nutrition in Recovery, a group practice of RDNs specializing in treating eating and substance use disorders. He earned his Ph.D. in Public Health with a minor in Health Psychology from UCLA. Dr. Wiss is a scientific author with over 20 peer-reviewed publications, a nutrition and health consultant, functional medicine practitioner, recovery coach, and passionate educator. Today we are going to learn ALL about his revolutionary new Wise Mind Nutrition app which focuses on the intersection of nutrition and mental health. Dr. Wiss also speaks to us about his recent article “How the Nutrition Field Became Toxic and What We Can Do About It.” His thoughts on 12 step food programs, AND what he has learned in 17 years in recovery. Thank you for listening and enjoy this episode! Todays Topics: The Wise Mind Nutrition app and who it is for His article “How the Nutrition Field Became Toxic and What We Can Do About It.”  The food industry is paying 'influencer' dietitians to shape our eating habits How to to discern whether the nutritional advice is credible or not His thoughts on 12 step food programs What he has learned in his 17 years of being in recovery  “I had to be rigid to get free, but I didn't get free to spend the rest of my life being rigid. I want to be more like water and less like rocks.” What is next for him Follow David: Nutrition in Recovery: https://www.nutritioninrecovery.com 20 Peer-Reviewed Publications: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=qTHIYQEAAAAJ&hl=en Wise Mind Nutrition: https://wisemindnutrition.com

Col. Philip Blair, MD, is a board certified Family Physician licensed in Washington State . He graduated from West Point in 1972 and attended University of Miami School of Medicine and trained as a family physician. He had assignments in Georgia, Louisiana, Washington, Oklahoma, Texas, Hawaii, Kansas, Italy, Korea, Germany, and the Gulf War. After retiring from the Army in 1996 he managed workers injuries and provided primary care above the Arctic Circle in Alaska. He also provided services in Kodiac Island and Newfoundland, Canada. In 2000 he became Vice President for Disease Management at AWAC, Inc., an medical management company, where he co-developed a highly successful interventional approach to chronic kidney disease. In 2011 he formed his own company consulting for employer based health insurers and providing a revolutionary style of chronic disease management achieving success in over 75% of patients with diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease and metabolic syndrome. "Our program is truly focused on patients and helping them navigate through our complicated health care system," emphasizes Dr. Blair. Much of the program is about empowering individual patients to make lifestyle changes and coaching them through the difficult transitions until they realize success. And, then helping them maintain their positive outcomes for life. Dr. Blair continues to explore new therapeutic approaches to chronic problems supported by medical evidence and clinical results including whole body vibration, low dose naltrexone and cannabidiol. These new areas show exceptional promise and success with little or no adverse effects.  In this episode: His personal story CBD The endocannabinoid system and appetite CB1 & CB2 receptors Beta karyophyllene His product (buyer beware Food Junkies does not endorse any products by our guests) Follow Dr. Blair: http://www.drphilipblair.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.  

What a privilege it was to speak to Dr. Tarman! She is the leading authority on food addiction. We cover a variety of topics in this podcast. Importantly, Dr. Tarman defines what food addiction is so that you can identify it within yourself, if you feel that this may be applicable to you. We also discuss how food addiction is treated. Spoiler alert... treatment for food addiction and reversing Type 2 diabetes through diet are accomplished in the much same way. Additionally, since this is a podcast about fasting, we discuss the role that fasting may have for someone that is also dealing with food addiction.You will definitely come away from this episode with a much better understanding of food addiction. However, since this podcast is only one hour and the field of food addiction is so broad, I highly recommend that you check out Dr. Tarman's book (Food Junkies), podcast (Food Junkies), Facebook page (Sugar-Free for Life: I'm Sweet Enough), and website (addictionsunplugged.com) for many more resources. Links:Book: https://www.amazon.com/Food-Junkies-Truth-About-Addiction/dp/1459728599Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/food-junkies-podcast/id1547705773Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SugarFreeForLifeWebsite: https://addictionsunplugged.com/

On this episode of What You're Craving, Molly is joined by addiction specialist Clarissa Kennedy and her Food Junkies podcast co-host Molly Painschab. Clarissa shares her personal experience with food and alcohol addiction, discussing how changing her eating habits helped her overcome her alcohol addiction. Molly Painschab also shares her experience working in the field and her own journey of addressing her food addiction. This conversation delves into important aspects of food addiction, including how it presents itself, the benefits of a low-exposure food plan, and the underlying causes. The episode also explores the role of mindfulness and sleep in managing food addiction, emphasizing the importance of seeking support in the recovery process. Furthermore, they will discuss how most food addiction recovery requires a foundation free of diet culture thinking and rooted in self-compassion. Episode Quotes: “The world is really missing out on a lot of us who are so deeply embedded in healthy eating as an eating disorder.” “So much of what we do with food addiction is undoing diet culture.” Clarissa and Molly recently launched Sweet Sobriety, an interactive, one-of-a-kind online coaching, community, and connection for those seeking an improved relationship with self, food, and body. Connect with Molly: Gift yourself valentine's day with ME at my Love Yourself Fireside chat - https://mollycarmel.com/love-yourself/ Come join me March 30th and April 1 at the ownyourworthexperience.com - it's going to be INCREDIBLE! There are also LOTS of other offerings - Fireside chats, intenSati classes all on https://mollycarmel.com You can also purchase the Breaking Up with Sugar course here: mollycarmel.com/buws Join my mailing list for a free mini masterclass: mollycarmel.com/minimasterclass Become a part of the Breaking Up with Sugar FB Group: facebook.com/groups/buwsbook Come hang with me on social media!! IG (I love a DM!): @mollycarmel YouTube: Molly Carmel Tiktok: @realmollycarmel Facebook: facebook.com/mollycarmel.buws

Today, I am blessed to have here with me Dr. Vera Tarman. Dr. Vera Tarman started addictions Unplugged in 2008 because she found a need for information on addiction and, more specifically, food addiction. This is episode was previously aired on April 24th 2021. Today, the Addictions Unplugged website serves as a portal and discussion forum for medical professionals, front-line addiction workers, and those affected by addiction to reach out to Dr. Tarman and find out the latest information on treatment. Dr. Tarman has been reaching out to the medical and addiction communities through her workshops and speaking engagements. She speaks on the topics of the science behind food addiction and why we use food for comfort. She has educated thousands of people across the world and hopes to help all those struggling with food addiction. In this episode, Dr. Vera Tarman reveals how she found the connection between indulging cravings for "comfort food" and engaging in substance abuse. Yes, food can become addictive, and Dr. Vera explains how. Plus, we talk about how to know if you're addicted to food and what steps you can take to face that food addiction. Plus, we go deep into what's happening in our brains when we eat sugar and why scientists make food so addictive. Order Keto Flex: http://www.ketoflexbook.com -------------------------------------------------------- / / E P I S O D E   S P ON S O R S  BiOptimizers Kapex Keto Digestive Enzymes: www.kenergize.com/ketokamp Use the coupon code ketokamp10 for 10% off your entire order. PureForm Omega Plant Based Oils (Best Alternative to Fish Oil): http://www.purelifescience.com Use ben4 for $4.00 off. The Beauty & The Broth - High Quality Bone Broth, Concentrated Packets. Visit http://www.thebeautyandthebroth.com  Text me the words "Podcast" +1 (786) 364-5002 to be added to my contacts list.  [00:25] About Dr. Vera Tarman And The Inspiration Behind Food Junkies Vera is an addiction specialist. She sees people coming into a residential setting, they're putting down their alcohol, cocaine, cigarettes, and marijuana. However, they start picking up the sugar. Within two or three weeks, they started to gain a lot of weight. Eating was very much like their previous behavior of addiction. Now, Dr. Vera loves to talk about the addiction that people have with food. Plus, she even wrote a book on the subject – Food Junkies. It's a fact-filled guide to coping with compulsive overeating problems. Overeating, binge eating, obesity, anorexia, and bulimia – Dr. Vera tackles the poorly understood issue of food addiction in her book. Get Food Junkies: https://www.amazon.ca/Food-Junkies-Recovery-Addiction/dp/1459741978/benazadi-20  [06:05] How Can Food Become Addictive? The inspiration for Food Junkies came from another book, Hooked. Hooked is about the troubling story of how food companies have exploited our most fundamental evolutionary instincts to get us hooked on processed foods. Get Hooked: https://www.amazon.ca/Hooked-Food-Giants-Exploit-Addictions/dp/0771059590/benazadi-20 The food industry has made our food addictive by targeting the chemistry in our brains. Sadly, the food industry has figured out that the reward pathway will keep people coming back for their food. Brilliant scientists are paid good money to figure out how to activate those pathways. [08:50] The Negative Impacts On Your Brain When Consuming Sugars Sugars will light up part of the brain that's emotional and impulsive. It's the part of our brain that makes us do things without thought - this is all subconscious thinking. Plus, sugar will trigger dopamine primarily, which is our neurochemical of desire. There's also endorphins and serotonin. Endorphins trigger comfort while serotonin triggers connectedness. Addiction will make you want an entire bag of chips. You can't stop at one or two because your neural biology is so damaged. The physical manifestations of sugar and high-carb addiction are happening in the brain. [17:00] What You Need To Know About The Different Stages of Food Addiction When we talk about food addiction, it's essentially like diabetes. Food addiction is a chronic and progressive condition. You may have a food addiction if you would rather stay at home and eat instead of going out for a social occasion. If you consistently do not feel well because of the food you eat, you may be suffering from food addiction. Another sign of food addiction is eating foods that you know are not going to make you feel good. If your obsession with food is excessive, then you are a food addict. Lastly, if you are in trouble with your health, then you may be a food addict. “You have to be very careful if you're moving down this path of food addiction.” -Dr. Vera [25:25] Fasting For People With Addictions To Food Cutting out sugar will be the first step for people who have an addiction to food. Sugar is the trigger – so, ditch the trigger! If you have a food addiction, be aware of pitfalls. If you have a history of starving yourself, then fasting may not be the right path. Fasting can be healing; however, it's a tool that can hurt you if you do not know how to use it. If it's done carefully, fasting can be great for the body. [30:40] Why Dr. Vera Is A Massive Fan Of Eating More Protein Vera isn't necessary a fan of protein. Instead, Dr. Vera is a fan of low-carb. Protein and fat will give the body satiety. Most likely, if you are low-carb, then you are eating higher protein. Vera says she doesn't have a problem with carbs as long as they are not processed. [32:15] It Takes Three To Four Weeks To Kick Your Sugar Addiction It takes about three of four weeks to quit an addiction fully. A connection with a daily coach or sponsor will be critical on your journey. So, find support from someone while kicking your addiction. Keto Kamp is a great community of people who are ready to help you! [40:00] Treatment: Ways To Help When You're A Food Addict First of all, you have to eat the right food - you have to stop the drug! The first month is going to be difficult. As time goes on, it will get easier and easier. By week four, you will feel free! Lastly, you need to protect yourself from future triggers. Check out Dr. Vera's support group. Sugar-Free for Life Support Group: I'm Sweet Enough: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SugarFreeForLife/ AND MUCH MORE!  Resources from this episode: Check out Addictions Unplugged: https://www.addictionsunplugged.com/ Follow Dr. Vera Tarman Twitter: https://twitter.com/addunplug Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veratarmanmd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-vera-tarman-655ba12a YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybif3curwya4wh9z5hrYsA Get Food Junkies: https://www.amazon.ca/Food-Junkies-Recovery-Addiction/dp/1459741978/benazadi-20 Get Hooked: https://www.amazon.ca/Hooked-Food-Giants-Exploit-Addictions/dp/0771059590/benazadi-20 Check out Dr. Vera's support group. Sugar-Free for Life Support Group: I'm Sweet Enough: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SugarFreeForLife/ Listen to Ben on Food Junkies Podcast: https://www.addictionsunplugged.com/food-junkies-podcast-ep12-ben-azadi/ Email Dr. Vera Tarman: veratarmanmd@gmail.com Join theKeto Kamp Academy: https://ketokampacademy.com/7-day-trial-a WatchKeto Kamp on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUh_MOM621MvpW_HLtfkLyQ Order Keto Flex: http://www.ketoflexbook.com -------------------------------------------------------- / / E P I S O D E   S P ON S O R S  BiOptimizers Kapex Keto Digestive Enzymes: www.kenergize.com/ketokamp Use the coupon code ketokamp10 for 10% off your entire order. PureForm Omega Plant Based Oils (Best Alternative to Fish Oil): http://www.purelifescience.com Use ben4 for $4.00 off. The Beauty & The Broth - High Quality Bone Broth, Concentrated Packets. Visit http://www.thebeautyandthebroth.com  Text me the words "Podcast" +1 (786) 364-5002 to be added to my contacts list.