Food Junkies Podcast

Clarissa Kennedy
  • 4.9 (65)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Food Junkies Podcast

Welcome to the "Food Junkies" podcast! Here we aim to provide you with the experience, strength and hope of professionals actively working on the front lines in the field of Food Addiciton. The purpose of our show is to educate YOU the listener and increase overall awareness about Food Addiction as a recognized disorder. Here we discuss all things recovery, exploring the many pathways people take towards abstinence in order to achieve a health forward lifestyle. Most importantly how to THRIVE rather than just survive. So stay positive, make a change for yourself, tell others about your change, and hopefully the message will spread. The content on our show does not supplement or supersede the professional relationship and direction of your healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder or mental health concern.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Episode 203: Dr. Roberto Olivardia, Clinical Psychologist, ADHD Expert, and Researcher

    Dr. Olivardia is a clinical psychologist, lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate at McLean Hospital. He maintains a private practice in Lexington, MA, where he specializes in the treatment of ADHD, executive functioning issues, and issues that face students with learning differences. He is a recognized expert in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He is on the Professional Advisory Boards for Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD) and The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), as well as sits on the Scientific Advisory Board for ADDitude and the Expert Network for Understood. He is co-author of The Adonis Complex, a book which details the various manifestations of body image problems in males. He has appeared in publications such as Time, GQ, and Rolling Stone, and has been featured on Good Morning America, Extra, CBS This Morning, CNN, and VH1. He has spoken on numerous radio and webinar shows and presents at many talks and conferences around the country. He also has lived experience as someone with ADHD and learning differences and a parent of two teenagers with ADHD and Dyslexia. Key Takeaways: 1. ADHD and Eating Disorders: ADHD impacts all life domains, with symptoms like impulsivity, executive dysfunction, and high sensory needs that influence eating behaviors. For many with ADHD, eating is driven by sensory-seeking, and the brain’s need for stimulation can lead to unhealthy eating patterns. ADHD is often associated with binge eating and food impulsivity, influenced by genetic and neurological factors, such as dopamine dysregulation and low levels of GABA, the neurotransmitter related to inhibition.   2. Genetics, Food Culture, and Neurobiology: Dr. Olivardia shares how his family’s love for food shaped his relationship with eating and sensory stimulation. ADHD brains often experience high stimulation from ultra-processed foods, which can drive cravings and overeating due to dopamine’s role in the brain’s reward system.   3. Executive Function Challenges in Meal Planning: ADHD can make meal planning, shopping, and cooking overwhelming. Structured lists, simple recipes, and single-pot meals can help manage mealtime more effectively for those with ADHD. Regular, scheduled meals prevent intense late-night eating often seen in ADHD.   4. Medication and Treatment Options: Stimulant medications, like Vyvanse (FDA-approved for binge eating disorder), help some individuals with ADHD manage impulsivity around food by improving focus and reducing cravings. Proper medication can significantly enhance treatment outcomes for ADHD-related eating challenges. For individuals who don’t respond to medication, behavioral strategies such as maintaining regular sleep schedules, exercising, and using music for grounding can be effective.   5. Binge Eating and Addiction Risks:  Dr. Olivardia highlights the link between ADHD and addiction, including food addiction. ADHD brains metabolize glucose differently, leading to cravings for high-sugar foods. Education on how ADHD brains work can alleviate feelings of weakness or shame in managing eating behaviors.   6. Self-Acceptance and Neurodiversity: Dr. Olivardia encourages embracing ADHD and neurodiversity, emphasizing that people with ADHD often excel in creative and mission-driven fields. ADHD challenges can become strengths, leading to fulfilling, meaningful work and connections.   Resources: • CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) – A leading organization for ADHD support and resources: https://chadd.org   • Attitude Magazine – A resource for ADHD insights and content: https://www.additudemag.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

    1h 9m

  2. NOV 6

    Episode 202: Breaking Free from Food Addiction: Exploring Unattached Burdens with Robert Falconer

    What if overcoming food addiction isn't about changing yourself but about identifying and releasing foreign influences within your mind? In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with Robert Falconer to dive into the concept of "unattached burdens" and explore how these external influences may drive our cravings. Falconer, an expert in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy, is the author of "The Others Within Us: Internal Family Systems, Porous Mind, and Spirit Possession," which examines how unattached burdens might be impacting our behaviors and addictions. Robert Falconer holds an undergraduate degree in cultural anthropology with a focus on the history of religions and a master's degree in psychology. With over 50 years of experience in psychotherapy, Falconer specializes in IFS Therapy and has authored multiple books, including a co-authored work with IFS founder Richard Schwartz. His latest book introduces the concept of unattached burdens, blending psychological insights with a spiritual dimension that challenges traditional Western views of the mind.  Episode Highlights: Personal Journey: Falconer shares his career evolution over five decades, moving from Gestalt therapy to IFS and beyond. Insights into navigating criticism and maintaining an open, resilient approach. Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS): Falconer introduces IFS, explaining its basic concepts and how it frames addiction as a struggle between internal "selves." A look at how Falconer’s ideas diverge from the traditional IFS approach, particularly with the theory of unattached burdens. Exploring "The Others Within Us": What are unattached burdens, and are they literal or metaphorical? Discussion on the "citadel theory of mind" and how unattached burdens challenge conventional views of selfhood. How unattached burdens differ from conditions like dissociative identity disorder. The Concept of a Porous Mind: The "porous mind" as a way to understand openness to external influences. How this concept redefines addiction and compulsive behaviors, offering an alternative approach to understanding cravings. Unattached Burdens and Spirit Possession: Drawing parallels between spirit possession across cultures and psychological theories in the West. Exploring whether these burdens are akin to Jungian archetypes. Can unattached burdens be viewed as a metaphor, or must they be taken literally for therapeutic success? Evidence and Ethical Considerations: Falconer discusses the evidence for external influences on thought and behavior. Ethical questions surrounding spirit guides in therapy and the use of hallucinogens for accessing these influences. Applying These Ideas to Food Addiction: How unattached burdens might provide new insights into food cravings and compulsive eating. Potential applications of spirit guides or ancestral influences in addressing food addiction. Considering parallels between "unattached burdens" and the "red dog" in Food Addiction (FA) frameworks. Connect with Robert Falconer: Website: https://robertfalconer.us 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.

    49 min

  3. OCT 31

    Episode 201: Clinicians Corner with Molly and Clarissa

    🎧 Clinicians Corner on Nervous System Regulation in Food Addiction Recovery 🎧 💡 Top Insights A Broader Mission: Clinicians Corner is here to spread practical interventions from food addiction recovery and empower both clinicians and non-clinicians, like recovery coaches, with actionable tools. 🧠 Nervous System Basics Fight, Flight, Freeze: Key states that influence our actions. Understanding and moving between sympathetic (stress) and parasympathetic (calm) states can change how we respond to cravings. Body-Brain Connection: 80% of body-to-brain communication underscores how physical sensations impact recovery. Think of the body as the “horse,” guiding the brain’s “rider.” 🛠️ Practical Tools for Regulation Sigh It Out: Deep breaths and the “physiological sigh” (two quick inhales, one long exhale) reset the body in moments of overwhelm. Simple Movements: Light stretching, progressive muscle relaxation, and finger movements help release pent-up energy. Grounding Senses: Engage your environment with the 5-4-3-2-1 technique (seeing, touching, hearing, smelling, tasting). Scents like lavender or your favorite aromas can bring a sense of peace. 📅 Daily Pre-Meal Practices Mini-Rituals: Brief walks, calming music, or being near nature before meals can ease digestion and reduce cravings. Self-Compassionate Touch: Hugging yourself or placing a hand on your chest for a few seconds promotes calm, especially if you’re working through complex emotions or past trauma. 🌿 Why Nervous System Care Matters Healing from Trauma: Trauma often results in hypervigilance or emotional collapse. Recognizing these responses in yourself and practicing grounding tools helps create safety from within. Community & Co-Regulation: Group settings, supportive peers, and even animals can offer regulatory “energy” and mirror a sense of calm for those struggling with addiction recovery. 🎯 Remember Consistency, not perfection, is key! Practicing these tools regularly makes it easier to access them during high-stress moments. We invite you to share your topic suggestions with us! Please email us at foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com. The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern. Connect with Molly and Clarissa Website: https://www.sweetsobriety.ca  Email: Info@sweetsobriety.ca

    1h 11m

  4. OCT 23

    Episode 200: Josh Dech Part 2

    Josh Dech is a former paramedic, and a certified personal fitness trainer who transitioned into holistic health care after recognizing the limitations of traditional medical practices. He completed his paramedic training in 2013 and later studied holistic nutrition at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in 2021.   He combined his expertise in fitness and nutrition to focus on gut health, particularly inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's and colitis. His innovative approaches have led to the successful reversal of over 300 cases of these conditions, previously deemed incurable. Josh now serves as a medical lecturer and physician consultant at the Priority Health Academy, where he educates doctors on holistic approaches to gut health and IBD. He also hosts a podcast "ReversABLE," which shares insights on gut health and its profound impact on overall well-being. Takeaways: 💡 How does the Western diet affect gut health? Any surprising examples? 💡 What’s the connection between stress and gut health? 💡 Holistic approach to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): How do you treat it? 💡 Challenges for those who can't eat fiber or healthy foods—what are the options? 🍽️ Diet Talk: Vegan vs. Keto – Which one is better for gut health? ⚠️ Ultra-processed foods: Why are they harmful beyond just dopamine? 💡 Bariatric surgery: How does it impact gut health? 🔬 Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs): Why are they essential for a healthy gut? 🧑‍⚕️ Medical treatments for gut issues: • Surgery • Prednisone, Sulfasalazine • Immunomodulators, Antibiotics How do these treatments fall short? 💊 Antibiotics & the gut microbiome: How can we mitigate their negative effects? 💡 Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT): What are the benefits and risks? 💬 Colonics: Helpful or not? ⏳ Long-term risks of untreated IBD: What are they? 🔍 Why isn’t your approach more popular? Are political or economic factors in the way?   🍕 Food Addiction & Gut Health: 🤔 Do you see food addiction in your clients today? 💡 How do you treat food addiction in IBD patients? 🔄 The gut microbiome & cravings: What’s the connection? 🥦 Best nutritional strategies for both food addiction and gut health? 🚀 Can improving gut health help reduce food addiction symptoms? How does that work? Follow Josh: Facebook: Josh Dech  Facebook: IBD Support and Solutions for Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis Podcast: https://www.reversablepod.com Instagram: @ joshdech.health You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@GutHealthSolution LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-dech-5a1582106/   REGISTER FOR Mastering the Science of Hunger, Craving, and 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.

    57 min

  5. OCT 17

    Episode 199: Josh Dech

    Josh Dech is a former paramedic, and a certified personal fitness trainer who transitioned into holistic health care after recognizing the limitations of traditional medical practices. He completed his paramedic training in 2013 and later studied holistic nutrition at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in 2021.   He combined his expertise in fitness and nutrition to focus on gut health, particularly inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's and colitis. His innovative approaches have led to the successful reversal of over 300 cases of these conditions, previously deemed incurable. Josh now serves as a medical lecturer and physician consultant at the Priority Health Academy, where he educates doctors on holistic approaches to gut health and IBD. He also hosts a podcast "ReversABLE," which shares insights on gut health and its profound impact on overall well-being. Vera Asks Josh: • How did you get into holistic health, and what led you to focus on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? • How did you discover the importance of nutrition for IBD? • Why is North America considered the gut disease capital of the world? • What role does the gut microbiome play in both overall health and mental well-being? • What is the connection between gut health and the immune system? • Can you define "leaky gut" and explain how you assess and address it in your practice? • What are IBS and IBD, and how are they different? • How do Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis differ in terms of symptoms and causes? • How does the Western diet impact gut health? How does stress affect our gut health? • What is your holistic approach to treating IBD? Could you explain your innovative methods? • Why do ultra-processed foods harm our gut health? • Vegan vs. Keto: Which is better for gut health? • Why do some people tolerate fiber while others can’t? • What role do short-chain fatty acids play in maintaining a healthy gut? • How do antibiotics impact the gut microbiome, and how can we mitigate these effects? • How does food addiction present in his practice, especially those with IBD? • How do you treat food addiction in patients with IBD? • What role does the gut microbiome play in food cravings and addictive eating? • Do you think improving gut health could reduce food addiction?  Follow Josh: Facebook: Josh Dech  Facebook: IBD Support and Solutions for Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis Podcast: https://www.reversablepod.com Instagram: @ joshdech.health You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@GutHealthSolution LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-dech-5a1582106/ 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.

    49 min

  6. OCT 15

    Food Junkies Recovery Stories Episode 20: Janessa

    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/.

    39 min

  7. OCT 10

    Episode 198: Dr. Laurie Marbas

    In this enlightening episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, Molly Painschab sits down with Dr. Laurie Marbas to discuss the complex relationship between hormonal health and food addiction. Dr. Marbas, a board-certified family physician, shares her expertise on the impact of hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, as well as conditions like PCOS, on women’s physical and mental well-being. Key Topics Discussed: Hormones and Women's Health: Dr. Marbas explains the hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause and their impact on mood, metabolism, sleep, and overall health. The importance of recognizing the 30+ symptoms of menopause beyond hot flashes, including joint pain, cognitive changes (e.g., brain fog), and weight distribution shifts. The Role of Lifestyle in Hormonal Health: How can lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management significantly affect the severity of menopause symptoms? Dr. Marbas emphasizes the importance of a whole-food, plant-based diet, resistance training, and effective stress management strategies to improve hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. PCOS and Food Addiction: A deep dive into how hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS contribute to cravings and food addiction behaviors. Dr. Marbas shares insights on managing PCOS through lifestyle changes and the role of insulin resistance in perpetuating cravings for sugary, processed foods. The Gut-Brain Connection: The gut-brain axis affects hormonal health, food cravings, and overall well-being. Improving gut health with a high-fiber, plant-based diet can help manage cravings and reduce inflammation, benefiting mental and physical health. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): When lifestyle changes are not enough, Dr. Marbas discusses the role of hormone replacement therapy in supporting women through menopause, alleviating symptoms, and improving quality of life. Working with knowledgeable healthcare providers to explore HRT and other medical interventions tailored to individual risk factors is important. Key Takeaways: Hormonal fluctuations during menopause and PCOS can intensify food cravings and food addiction behaviors. A whole-food, plant-based diet, regular physical activity (particularly resistance training), and mindful stress management are key to mitigating these effects. Hormone replacement therapy can be a valuable tool for women who continue to struggle despite lifestyle changes, but it must be approached with individualized care.   Dr. Laurie Marbas, a renowned board-certified Lifestyle, and Family Medicine physician is licensed to practice in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. She embodies professional versatility and expertise and is committed to delivering personalized, top-notch healthcare solutions tailored to your unique needs.  Where to Find Dr. Marbas: To learn more about Dr. Marbas and her work in lifestyle medicine and hormonal health, visit her website: https://www.drmarbas.com/ You can book appointments, access resources, and explore ways to work with her across all 50 states.   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.

    1h 4m

  8. OCT 2

    Episode 197: Dr. Eric Westman

    In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, host Dr. Vera Tarman welcomes back Dr. Eric Westman, a renowned internal medicine physician and obesity medicine specialist. Dr. Westman has over 20 years of experience in clinical research and patient care, focusing on ketogenic diets and therapeutic carbohydrate restriction. As the director of the Keto Medicine Clinic at Duke University, Dr. Westman has been instrumental in advancing the research and application of low-carb diets to treat obesity and diabetes. During this discussion, Dr. Westman provides an update on the latest developments in the ketogenic community, including new research and clinical applications of the keto diet for weight loss, diabetes reversal, and overall metabolic health. He highlights the evolution of therapeutic carbohydrate restriction (TCR) and its impact on clinical practice and grassroots movements within the medical and health coaching communities. Key Discussion Points: Keto Diet Origins: Dr. Westman explains the keto diet's historical roots, dating back to the Banting Diet in the 1860s, and how it evolved into the Atkins Diet and the modern ketogenic movement. Research on Keto and Safety: Dr. Westman discusses the early skepticism surrounding the safety of ketogenic diets and how clinical trials have proven the diet's safety and efficacy. Virta Health's Role in Diabetes Reversal: Learn about Virta Health’s groundbreaking studies on using a low-carb diet to reverse type 2 diabetes, and how technology, such as apps and blood sugar monitoring, can play a role in this process. Challenges with the Medical Community: Dr. Westman addresses the growing divide between physicians who rely on medication-based treatments for obesity and those who advocate for lifestyle changes through therapeutic carbohydrate restriction. The Cholesterol Controversy: Dr. Westman touches on the ongoing debate regarding cholesterol, LDL, and heart disease and why the prevailing LDL cholesterol hypothesis might not fully apply to people on low-carb diets. Ketone Bodies and Cravings: A deeper dive into how ketones reduce cravings and how ketogenic diets can help break the addiction cycle to sugar and carbohydrates. Processed Keto Foods and Potential Pitfalls: Dr. Westman shares his thoughts on the rise of processed keto products and their potential role in helping and hindering keto success. Keto Education and Support: Learn more about Dr. Westman’s educational programs, such as Keto Made Simple, which provide comprehensive support for individuals looking to adopt a ketogenic lifestyle.  Books by Dr. Westman: A New Atkins for a New You Keto Clarity Cholesterol Clarity End Your Carb Confusion  Educational Programs: Keto Made Simple Course – Available through Adapt Your Life Academy End Your Cholesterol Confusion Course Podcasts: Keto Made Simple: Learn with Dr. Westman Virta Health: Studies on diabetes reversal through ketogenic diets  Final Thoughts:   Dr. Westman’s work continues to demystify the science behind ketogenic diets, offering practical advice for both healthcare providers and individuals looking to improve their metabolic health. Whether you're interested in weight loss, diabetes reversal, or better overall health, this episode provides valuable insights into how the ketogenic lifestyle can fit into your journey.  Connect with Dr. Eric Westman:   Website: https://ericwestmanmd.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/drericwestman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adaptyourlifeacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdaptYourLifeAcademy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL55Chm2jfDSrWCzAmNjex2-iSC8nzgZpL LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-c-westman-md-mhs-a9b4b0/   **Subscribe to the Food Junkies Podcast** on your favorite podcast platform and join us on our journey to explore food addiction recovery and nutritional health!   The content of our show is educational only. It

    46 min
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4.9
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About

Welcome to the "Food Junkies" podcast! Here we aim to provide you with the experience, strength and hope of professionals actively working on the front lines in the field of Food Addiciton. The purpose of our show is to educate YOU the listener and increase overall awareness about Food Addiction as a recognized disorder. Here we discuss all things recovery, exploring the many pathways people take towards abstinence in order to achieve a health forward lifestyle. Most importantly how to THRIVE rather than just survive. So stay positive, make a change for yourself, tell others about your change, and hopefully the message will spread. The content on our show does not supplement or supersede the professional relationship and direction of your healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder or mental health concern.

Information

  • Creator
    Clarissa Kennedy
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2024
  • Episodes
    223
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Food Junkies Podcast

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