Dr. Vera Tarman – Author, Speaker & Food Addiction Expert

Sugarfree for Life Support Group
I’m Sweet Enough Challenge!

Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 221: Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis

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.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Dr. Parnarouskis’ journey into food addiction research
  • The strong link between food insecurity and food addiction (people experiencing food insecurity are almost four times more likely to struggle with food addiction)
  • How stress, financial fear, and limited access to whole foods reinforce addiction-like eating patterns
  • The withdrawal experience in food-insecure populations and how it mirrors other addictive substances
  • Why policy-level interventions—like expanding SNAP benefits, increasing access to whole foods, and regulating the food industry—are critical for preventing and addressing food addiction
  • The importance of harm reduction and meeting individuals where they are in recovery
  • How clinicians can screen for food insecurity and adjust interventions to be more compassionate and effective

Why This Conversation Matters:

Food insecurity is not just about hunger—it’s about the quality of food available, the stress of not knowing where your next meal comes from, and the long-term effects of relying on ultra-processed foods. Dr. Parnarouskis emphasizes that food addiction is not just a personal responsibility issue—it’s a systemic issue that demands policy changes, social support, and a more compassionate approach to treatment.

About Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis

Dr. Lindsey Parnarouskis is a clinical psychologist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Drexel University Center for Weight, Eating, and Lifestyle Science. She completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Michigan and her predoctoral internship at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Parnarouskis’ research seeks to understand the role of economic marginalization in developing and treating overeating concerns, to inform novel clinical and policy interventions.

Audio Player

Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 220: Dr. Weaver (The Link Between Ultra-Processed Food and Alzheimer’s)

Dr. Donald F. Weaver

In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, Dr. Vera Tarman speaks with Dr. Donald Weaver, a world-renowned expert on Alzheimer’s disease, its causes, and its treatment.

Dr. Weaver, a Canadian neurologist, chemist, and researcher at the University of Toronto, has made significant contributions to our understanding of cognitive diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s. His groundbreaking work suggests that Alzheimer’s is not just an inherited brain disorder but also an autoimmune condition triggered by environmental toxins, including metals, plastics, pesticides, and—most relevant to our discussion—ultra-processed foods.

Join us as we explore the science of Alzheimer’s, the role of diet in brain health, and what we can do to prevent cognitive decline. Dr. Weaver will discuss the inflammatory effects of ultra-processed foods, the role of the immune system in Alzheimer’s, and how diet is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for this devastating disease.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Dr. Weaver’s journey into neurology and Alzheimer’s research, including a personal story that shaped his career.
  • Why Alzheimer’s is not just one disease but a collection of related disorders.
  • The role of inflammation and the immune system in developing Alzheimer’s.
  • How ultra-processed foods contribute to brain inflammation and cognitive decline.
  • The similarities between Alzheimer’s and autoimmune diseases.
  • Why head trauma, air pollution, and diet are major risk factors.
  • How diabetes and obesity increase the likelihood of Alzheimer’s and why some researchers call it “Type 3 Diabetes.”
  • The potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic) to reduce Alzheimer’s risk.
  • Why it’s never too late to make dietary changes to protect brain health.
  • The latest research on potential treatments and vaccines for Alzheimer’s.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Diet is the most important modifiable risk factor for Alzheimer’s.” – Dr. Donald Weaver
    • “Your brain is what makes you—you. Your memories define you. Alzheimer’s is one of the most devastating diseases of the brain.” – Dr. Donald Weaver
    • “It’s never too late to protect your brain. Delaying Alzheimer’s by just five years can mean more time with your loved ones.” – Dr. Donald Weaver
    Audio Player

    Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 219: Clinicians Corner – The Importance of Belonging in Recovery

    Hosts Clarissa Kennedy and Molly Painschab explore the critical theme of belonging in recovery. They discuss the concept of “othering”—feeling unseen, unheard, or misunderstood—and its deep impact on individuals in their healing journeys. The episode is framed around a powerful quote from George Orwell about the loneliness of being misunderstood, setting the stage for a rich discussion on attachment, connection, and the need for belonging.

    Clarissa and Molly share personal experiences of feeling different, whether in family dynamics, social settings, or recovery groups. They examine how attachment styles—secure, avoidant, anxious, and disorganized—shape our ability to connect with others. Understanding these patterns can help individuals navigate relationships and cultivate deeper connections.

    They also highlight the essential role of nervous system regulation in recovery, emphasizing the power of co-regulation—where we find safety and grounding in connection with others. The discussion broadens into various forms of belonging, including interpersonal relationships, collective experiences, casual encounters, symbolic bonds, esteem-building, and contemplative practices.

    The episode concludes with encouragement for those feeling isolated in their recovery journey. The hosts remind listeners that belonging is cultivated over time and that finding one’s community may take patience and effort. They stress the importance of honoring one’s truth, setting boundaries, and staying open to new connections.

     

    Key Takeaways:

    1 Respect for the Person

    • The Pain of “Othering” – Feeling unseen and misunderstood can be isolating, but it’s a common experience, especially in recovery.
    • Attachment Styles Impact Belonging – Secure attachment fosters deep connection, while avoidant or anxious styles can make relationships challenging.

    Nervous System Regulation Through Connection – Belonging and co-regulation with others help soothe the nervous system and support healing.

    Six Ways to Cultivate Belonging:

    • Interpersonal Relationships – Quality connections with family, friends, and recovery groups.
    • Collective Experiences – Participating in group activities or shared traditions.
    • Casual Encounters – Everyday interactions that remind us of our place in the world.
    • Symbolic Bonds – Connecting through shared identities, cultures, or symbols.
    • Esteem-Building – Feeling valued through contributions and recognition.
    • Contemplative Practices – Finding connection through nature, mindfulness, and self-reflection.

    Vulnerability and Authenticity Foster True Belonging – Sharing personal stories and being open can create deep connections.

    Belonging is Not About Fitting In – It’s about being seen and accepted as you are, not changing yourself to match others’ expectations.

    Recovery Requires Courage to Stand Alone at Times – Not everyone will understand your journey, but staying true to yourself is essential.

    Finding Your People Takes Time – Your community is out there. Keep showing up, being authentic, and honoring your truth.

    Closing Thoughts::

    Your journey is valid. You are worthy of belonging exactly as you are. Keep searching for your community—they exist, and they will welcome you with open arms.

    Audio Player

    Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 218: Nick Norwitz p2

    In this episode, we welcome back Nick Norwitz for Part 2 of our deep dive into metabolism, food addiction, and dietary nuances. We cover everything from broken metabolisms to the role of hormones in weight regulation, the impact of glycemic load, and the ongoing debate about fruit, dairy, olive oil, and the carnivore diet. If you’ve ever wondered about food science versus food fear-mongering, this is the episode for you!

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1 Understanding “Broken Metabolism”

    The difference between metabolic dysfunction and metabolic perception.

     The role of insulin and other hormones in fat storage and hunger regulation.

    Why glycemic load matters more than calorie counting in weight loss.

    The importance of patience in metabolic healing, especially after years of processed food consumption.

    2 Why Weight Loss Can Plateau

    Metabolic adaptation and how fat cells retain memory.

    How food labels can be misleading and the importance of tracking glycemic response.

    The role of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in fine-tuning nutrition choices.

    3 Fruit and the Fear of Fructose

    Debunking the myth that all fructose is bad.

    How the small intestine processes fructose before it reaches the liver.

    The importance of context: different fruits have different effects on blood sugar.

    Recommendations for lower-glycemic fruits, such as berries, for those with insulin resistance.

    4 Olive Oil and Muscle Health

    The role of oleuropein in mitochondrial function and aging muscles.

    How olive leaf extract might help improve muscle metabolism.

    The importance of choosing high-quality olive oil for maximum benefit.

    5 Dairy and Cardiovascular Health

    New research showing that cheese may actually reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

    Why saturated fat in dairy is not necessarily harmful.

    The importance of individual tolerance—some people thrive on dairy, while others find it triggering.

    6 The Carnivore Diet: Is It Right for You?

    Carnivore as an elimination diet rather than a meat-only ideology.

    How some people experience relief from autoimmune and gut health issues by eliminating plant foods.

    Why sustainability and long-term adherence matter more than short-term results.

    Key Takeaways:

    Metabolic health is adaptable: Your body can heal, but patience and consistency are key.

    Fruit isn’t the enemy: Choose fruits wisely based on your metabolic health and glycemic response.

    Whole foods matter: The effects of food go beyond macros—consider nutrient density and processing.

    Individualization is key: Whether it’s carnivore, keto, or Mediterranean, the best diet is the one that works for you.

    Audio Player

    Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 217: Nick Norwitz p1

    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.

    Tune in to learn:

    • How Dr. Norwitz turned a devastating health condition into a lifelong passion for metabolic science.
    • The latest research on the gut microbiome and food addiction.
    • Why cholesterol numbers might not mean what you think they do.
    • How to apply scientific curiosity to your health journey.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Bariatric surgery alters the gut-brain axis, leading to changes in both alcohol and sugar sensitivity.
    • Some post-surgical patients are at increased risk for developing AUD due to heightened alcohol absorption and reward pathway changes.
    • Neurobiological and hormonal factors contribute to food cravings and hedonic eating post-surgery.
    • Obesity is often associated with low dopamine levels, and bariatric surgery may help restore dopamine balance, reducing food cravings.
    • Long-term post-surgery weight regain is common, raising questions about sustainable solutions for metabolic disorders.

    Future Directions & Research Needs:

    • Neuroscience of Post-Bariatric Surgery – More studies are needed on brain dopamine changes post-surgery.
    • Longitudinal Studies – Tracking post-surgical patients’ eating behaviors, alcohol consumption, and cravings over time.
    • Behavioral & Psychological Interventions – Combining pharmacology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and digital tools to personalize weight loss and addiction treatment.
    • Preventive Approaches – Identifying high-risk individuals pre-surgery to provide better education and support for long-term success.

    Final Thoughts from Dr. Davis:

    “If I could give my younger self advice, I’d say: Keep an open mind. Science is about asking what if and following the data wherever it leads.”

    Audio Player

    Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 216: Dr. Jon DavisFood

    Dr. Jon Davis

    In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, Dr. Vera Tarman speaks with Dr. Jon Davis, a principal investigator on the study Changes in Alcohol Use After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Dr. Davis is a principal scientist at Nova Nordisk, where he researches how gut-brain signaling mechanisms regulate appetite and metabolic disorders. His work explores the neurobiological connections between obesity, bariatric surgery, and substance use disorders—examining how bariatric procedures may increase the risk of alcohol use disorder (AUD) through gut microbiome and brain reward pathway alterations.

    The Food Junkies Podcast team is particularly interested in whether similar mechanisms might predispose post-bariatric surgery patients to sugar or food addiction.

    What We Discuss in This Episode:

    Dr. Davis’ Background & Research Journey – From an interest in neuroscience and memory formation to studying brain plasticity, substance use, and ultimately, bariatric surgery.

    Unexpected Discoveries – How interviews with post-bariatric surgery patients and their spouses revealed a pattern of increased alcohol consumption.

    Clinical Findings – Research has consistently shown that some patients who were low consumers of alcohol pre-surgery develop AUD post-surgery, while frequent drinkers pre-surgery may actually reduce their consumption afterward.

    Mechanisms at Play:

    • Gut Rewiring & Alcohol Sensitivity – How changes in gut absorption impact blood alcohol levels.
    • Hormonal Influences – The role of GLP-1 and ghrelin in regulating appetite, alcohol consumption, and cravings.
    • Dopamine & Reward Pathways – The link between obesity, food reward, and neurochemical changes post-surgery.
      *Rodent Models & Sugar Sensitivity – Research demonstrating that bariatric surgery increases rodents’ sensitivity to both alcohol and sugar, potentially explaining post-surgery changes in cravings.
      * Long-Term Outcomes & Weight Regain – Data suggests that 30–50% of bariatric surgery patients regain weight within five years. What are the implications for food addiction recovery?
      * Pharmacological & Surgical Interventions – Comparisons between bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic and Mounjaro) in regulating appetite and cravings.
      * The Debate on Food Addiction – Where the scientific community stands on whether food addiction should be classified as an addiction akin to substance use disorders.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Bariatric surgery alters the gut-brain axis, leading to changes in both alcohol and sugar sensitivity.
    • Some post-surgical patients are at increased risk for developing AUD due to heightened alcohol absorption and reward pathway changes.
    • Neurobiological and hormonal factors contribute to food cravings and hedonic eating post-surgery.
    • Obesity is often associated with low dopamine levels, and bariatric surgery may help restore dopamine balance, reducing food cravings.
    • Long-term post-surgery weight regain is common, raising questions about sustainable solutions for metabolic disorders.

    Future Directions & Research Needs:

    • Neuroscience of Post-Bariatric Surgery – More studies are needed on brain dopamine changes post-surgery.
    • Longitudinal Studies – Tracking post-surgical patients’ eating behaviors, alcohol consumption, and cravings over time.
    • Behavioral & Psychological Interventions – Combining pharmacology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and digital tools to personalize weight loss and addiction treatment.
    • Preventive Approaches – Identifying high-risk individuals pre-surgery to provide better education and support for long-term success.

    Final Thoughts from Dr. Davis:

    “If I could give my younger self advice, I’d say: Keep an open mind. Science is about asking what if and following the data wherever it leads.”

    Audio Player

    Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 215: Clinician’s Corner – Exploring Harm Reduction in Ultra-Processed Food Use Disorder

    In this episode, we dive into a hot topic in the world of Ultra-Processed Food (UPF) Use Disorder—Harm Reduction. This concept, widely recognized in substance use recovery, has been largely undefined or misunderstood in the food addiction space. Today, we explore:

    • What is harm reduction?
    • How does it work in food addiction recovery?
    • Who might benefit from harm reduction strategies?
    • Practical ways harm reduction can be applied in real-world recovery

    Key Harm Reduction Principles:

    1 Respect for the Person

    • Compassion over shame: People struggling with UPF addiction deserve respect and understanding—not guilt or judgment.
    • Meeting people where they are: Recovery is personal; some may need to eliminate certain foods, while others focus on reducing harm without complete abstinence.
    • Building trust: Encouraging open, non-judgmental conversations fosters a supportive recovery environment.

    2 Commitment to Evidence

    • Understanding food addiction science: Research shows UPFs hijack the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive overeating. Harm reduction is based on evidence, not willpower.
    • Using proven strategies: Structured meal planning, protein-rich whole foods, and blood sugar stabilization can help reduce cravings and binge episodes.
    • Medication as a tool: Some individuals benefit from medications like Naltrexone/Bupropion to regulate cravings—similar to medication-assisted treatment for substance use.

    3 Focus on Harms

    • Minimizing the most damaging behaviors: Recovery is not about immediate perfection but reducing harm over time.
    • Shifting food choices: A harm-reduction model may involve replacing binge-triggering UPFs with minimally processed alternatives.
    • Reducing metabolic harm: Eating whole foods first, balancing blood sugar, and prioritizing nutrition can help mitigate UPF-related health consequences.

    4 Recognizing Food Addiction Realities

    • Not everyone can quit UPFs overnight: A phased approach may be more sustainable.
    • UPFs are engineered for addiction: Willpower alone is not enough—practical strategies like structured eating and environmental changes can help.
    • Food as a coping mechanism: Understanding the emotional role of UPFs helps individuals develop healthier coping strategies.

    5 Prioritizing Autonomy

    • Individualized recovery paths: Some people thrive with full abstinence, while others focus on reducing harm in certain settings (e.g., social gatherings).
    • Empowering self-directed choices: Individuals should have the freedom to set their own recovery boundaries and decide which tools work for them.
    • Allowing flexibility: Recovery is not all-or-nothing—setbacks are learning experiences, not failures.

    6 Socio-Cultural Sensitivity

    • Considering food access and affordability: Many people in recovery have financial or geographical barriers to whole foods. Harm reduction respects these realities.
    • Cultural food traditions: Recovery must honor cultural identity while balancing UPF reduction goals.
    • Reducing stigma in marginalized communities: A non-judgmental, compassionate approach is crucial, especially for those with limited resources.
    Audio Player

    Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 214: Dr. Kim Dennis

    Dr. Kim Dennis

    Dr. Kim Dennis returns to the Food Junkies Podcast to discuss the evolving understanding of Ultra-Processed Food Use Disorder (UPFUD) and its intersection with clinical psychiatry, eating disorders, trauma, and harm reduction approaches. With mounting research pointing to the undeniable effects of ultra-processed foods on mental and physical health, Dr. Dennis provides insight into how treatment for food use disorder and eating disorders can evolve to better serve patients.

    She dives deep into the controversies within the eating disorder and addiction treatment fields, including:

    • The impact of ultra-processed foods on mood disorders, anxiety, and overall health
    • The role of trauma-informed care in addiction and eating disorder recovery
    • How adaptive dietary restraint challenges the “all foods fit” model in traditional eating disorder treatment
    • The three treatment approaches used in her clinic: treatment as usual, harm reduction, and abstinence-based recovery
    • How clinicians can balance avoiding diet culture while addressing the reality of harmful food choices

    Dr. Dennis also shares new research and emerging treatments, including the use of ketogenic meal plans for anorexia, and how individualized care can be the key to better long-term outcomes.

      This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in bridging the gap between eating disorder treatment and food addiction recovery while ensuring compassionate, science-backed, and trauma-informed care.

      About Dr. Kim Dennis:

      Dr. Kim Dennis is a board-certified psychiatrist, addiction specialist, and eating disorder expert. She is a fierce advocate for integrating food addiction into mainstream treatment and leads a clinic that treats eating disorders, substance use disorders, and mental health conditions holistically. With her lived experience in eating disorder and addiction recovery, she brings a unique and powerful perspective to the conversation.

        Audio Player

        Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 213: Michael Prager

        Michael Prager

        In this compelling episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, we welcome Michael Prager, author of Fat Boy, Thin Man and Sustainable You. Michael shares his transformative journey from struggling with food addiction and obesity to becoming an accomplished author, journalist, and advocate for food addiction recognition. With over 30 years of journalistic experience, including 14 years at the Boston Globe, Michael combines his storytelling skills and personal experience to illuminate the realities of food addiction and the systemic changes needed to address it.

        Michael discusses:

        • His journey through food addiction and recovery.
        • The pivotal moments led him to seek help and embrace a 12-step program.
        • The inspiration behind his books, Fat Boy, Thin Man, and Sustainable You.
        • His advocacy work with the Food Addiction Institute and the fight for institutional recognition of food addiction.
        • The parallels between food addiction and substance addiction.
        • The role of willingness and surrender in recovery.
        • Why institutional and cultural shifts are essential for addressing food addiction effectively.

        Episode Highlights:

        • [08:15] Michael’s “rock bottom” and how his recovery began.
        • [21:30] Why food addiction deserves recognition as a substance use disorder.
        • [37:45] Reflections on the food industry, body positivity, and systemic responsibility.
        • [44:10] Advice Michael would give his younger self about food addiction.

        Key Quotes:

        • “Food addiction is real. Once the world understands this, we can offer better solutions that provide relief to those who are suffering.”
        • “Recovery is about more than just physical health—it’s a spiritual transformation that impacts every part of your life.”
        • “We don’t eat because we have space to fill. We eat for 100 other reasons, and addressing those reasons is key to recovery.”
        Audio Player

        Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 212: Dr. Marty Lerner

        Dr. Marty Lerner

        Today, we are thrilled to have Dr. Marty Lerner return to the podcast. Dr. Lerner is the Executive Director of the Milestones in Recovery Eating Disorders Program and a licensed, board-certified clinical psychologist. He has been a pioneering voice in understanding the complex overlap between eating disorders, food addiction, and the emerging use of GLP-1 receptor agonists. His insights have been featured in professional journals, major newspapers like USA Today and The Wall Street Journal, and national television programs including 20/20, NPR Report, and Nightline. He is also the author of A Guide to Eating Disorder Recovery, available as a free eBook on the Milestones program website.

        In this episode, Dr. Lerner shares his expert perspective on the evolving conversation around eating disorders, food addiction, and the growing use of GLP-1 medications. We explore their mechanisms, clinical implications, and the ethical considerations surrounding their use in treatment.

        What We Cover in This Episode:
        State of the Field: Changes in the Last Three Years

        • How has the intersection of eating disorders and food addiction evolved?
        • Has there been more collaboration between these fields?

        GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: A Game-Changer or a Concern?

        • Dr. Lerner’s initial reaction to GLP-1s and whether his perspective has shifted.
        • Understanding their mechanisms: insulin sensitivity, delayed gastric emptying, weight loss, and craving reduction.

        How GLP-1s Impact Cravings and Satiety

        • How do GLP-1 receptor agonists manage cravings and reduce binge-eating behaviors?
        • How do they influence hunger and satiety signals in the brain?

        Clinical Insights and Considerations

        • What major changes has Dr. Lerner witnessed in his clients using GLP-1s?
        • Who benefits most from these medications? Who should avoid them?
        • Are GLP-1s safe for individuals with eating disorders?
        • Can they be used safely for food addiction?
        • Are there contraindications for individuals with underlying mental health conditions like anxiety and depression?
        • Do these medications address emotional/psychological components of food addiction?

        Potential Side Effects and Long-Term Considerations

        • What are the most concerning side effects?
        • How do they affect thyroid function, sex hormones, and overall hormonal balance?
        • Is there evidence of metabolic downregulation or tolerance with prolonged use?
        • How has the widespread use of these medications changed Dr. Lerner’s therapeutic practice?

        Advice for Clinicians and Patients

        • What should clinicians consider when prescribing or recommending GLP-1s?
        • What should patients know before deciding to use them?

        Looking Ahead: Hopes and Concerns

        • What are Dr. Lerner’s hopes for the future of GLP-1s in treatment?
        • What concerns does he have about their long-term impact?
        • His ongoing work and research in the field.
        • His advice to his younger self about GLP-1 medications.
        Audio Player

        Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 211: Dr. Amelia Scott Barrett

        In this episode of the Food Junkies Podcast, Dr. Vera Tarman sits down with Dr. Amelia Scott Barrett, a Stanford-trained neurologist and migraine expert with over 30 years of experience. Dr. Barrett shares her professional insights and personal journey with migraines, exploring their genetic basis, root causes, and treatment options. This comprehensive conversation covers everything from diet and hormonal influences to toxins and integrative medicine approaches.

        Dr. Barrett founded Migraine Relief Code, an online platform offering integrative tools for migraine sufferers, and has a popular 2023 TED Talk on migraines. She advocates for addressing migraines early, focusing on root causes rather than just masking symptoms.

        What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

        1. Migraine Basics and Misconceptions:

          • The key differences between migraines and tension headaches.

          • Why many people with migraines are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

          • Understanding “migraine brain” and the importance of early intervention.

        2. Root Causes of Migraines:

          • Nutrients: How deficiencies in essential nutrients like omega-3s and vitamin D impact brain health.

          • Gut Health: The link between leaky gut, inflammation, and migraine triggers.

          • Toxins: How environmental toxins impair mitochondria and contribute to chronic pain.

          • Hormones and Adrenals: The role of stress, cortisol depletion, and hormonal fluctuations in migraines.

        3. Diet and Lifestyle Tips:

          • The importance of balancing blood sugar to reduce migraine frequency.

          • How processed foods and sugar impact migraines and mimic addictive eating patterns.

          • Why a ketogenic or whole-food, plant-based diet may help manage symptoms.

          • The role of alcohol and endocrine disruptors in triggering migraines.

        4. Integrative Approaches to Treatment:

          • Biohacking tools are used to monitor and shift the body from “fight or flight” to recovery mode.

          • Why a personalized recovery plan addressing underlying issues is critical.

          • The benefits and limitations of medications, injections, and other pharmaceutical treatments.

        5. Research and Future Directions:

          • The emerging role of genomic research and precision medicine in migraine treatment.

          • How toxins and processed foods contribute to broader neurological conditions.

        Audio Player

        Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 210: Clinician’s Corner with Clarissa and Molly – Slips, lapses, recurrences, and relapses

        Episode Highlights:

        • Happy New Year from Molly and Clarissa!
        • A discussion on their focus words for 2025: Flourishing (Clarissa) and Emanation (Molly).
        • Reflections on how these guiding concepts shape their personal and professional goals for the new year.

        Main Topic: Slips vs. Recurrence in Recovery

        • Clarifying terminology: Slip, lapse, recurrence, and relapse—what they mean and why language matters in addiction recovery.
        • The role of compassion: How self-compassion serves as a tool for growth and a buffer against shame.
        • Identifying signs of vulnerability: Subtle indicators that may lead to slips or recurrences and strategies to recognize and address them early.
        • Empowering recovery: Practical steps to take after Mantras for Recovery:a slip and how to differentiate it from a recurrence.

         Key Takeaways:

        • Recovery isn’t linear, and slips are not shameful
        • Language matters. Terms like “recurrence” or “return to use” can reduce shame and empower recovery.
        • Support systems, self-compassion, and curiosity are essential tools in navigating challenges.
        • Recovery is about resilience and learning, not perfection.

        Mantras for Recovery:

        • Perseverance over perfection.
        • Consistency over intensity.
        • Compassion over criticism.
        • Resilience over regret.
        • Learning over guilt.
        • Connection over isolation.
        • Empowerment over temptation.
        Audio Player
        Addictions Unplugged, The Power Is Ours