Dr. Tarman defines food addiction as a chronic, progressive, and potentially fatal disease that involves an obsessive and compulsive relationship with food, especially highly palatable foods that are rich in sugar, fat, and salt. She says that food addiction is not about eating too much or being overweight, but about having an abnormal response to certain foods that makes them feel good in the short term, but causes harm in the long term. She argues that food addiction is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower, but a biological disorder that can be treated with abstinence from addictive foods and recovery support.
In this video of a Food Addiction: The Problem and The Solution podcast episode, Dr. Vera Tarman, a food addiction expert and author of Food Junkies: The Truth About Food Addiction, explains the science and the experience of food addiction. She compares food addiction to other substance addictions, such as alcohol and drugs, and shows how certain foods can trigger the same reward pathways in the brain that lead to cravings, loss of control, and negative consequences. She also shares her own personal story of overcoming food addiction and offers hope and guidance for others who struggle with this condition.
Dr. Tarman also discusses some of the common myths and misconceptions about food addiction, such as the idea that moderation is possible for everyone, or that food addiction is just an excuse for overeating. She debunks these myths with scientific evidence and clinical experience, and shows how food addiction can be diagnosed using criteria similar to those used for other substance addictions. She also provides some practical tips on how to identify and avoid addictive foods, how to cope with cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and how to find help and support from professionals and peers who understand food addiction.
Dr. Vera Tarman is on the faculty at the INFACT School and is an internationally renowned expert on sugar and food addiction and knows recovery is possible. Dr. Vera Tarman is the Medical Director of Renascent, one of Canada’s largest treatment centers for substance abuse where she works as an addiction specialist. Check out Dr. Tarman’s Facebook group
About The INFACT School The International School for Food Addiction Counseling and Treatment (INFACT School) is the world's first and only food addiction counseling training, resulting in professional certification from an accredited certification body. Graduates qualify to receive a Certified Food Addiction Professional (CFAP) certificate from the European Certification Board and a CFAP from the The Addiction Professionals Certification Board. Registration is open for the September, 2023 term
This video is the 5th Episode of the podcast, Food Addiction: The Problem and The Solution sponsored by the Food Addiction Institute, produced by The International School for Food Addiction Counseling and Treatment (INFACT), and hosted by FAI Board member, Susan Branscome.
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