Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 214: Dr. Kim Dennis

The Future of Ultra-Processed Food Use Disorder & Eating Disorder Treatment

Dr. Kim Dennis discusses the growing recognition of Ultra-Processed Food Use Disorder (UPFUD) and its impact on mental health. Citing a major study linking UPFA to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and anxiety, she challenges the “all foods fit” model in eating disorder treatment. At her clinic, patients are assessed using the Yale Food Addiction Scale and offered treatment as usual, harm reduction, or abstinence-based care. She emphasizes the need for individualized, research-backed approaches and urges clinicians to listen to patients as the field shifts toward recognizing food addiction as a serious condition.