Understanding Food Addiction

Food Addiction is a complex issue that goes way beyond mere willpower. It’s a battle fought on many fronts: emotional, practical and even neurological. It requires understanding, self- compassion and professional support.

If you think you are struggling with Food Addiction, know you are far from alone. A board certified health coach can provide valuable support and guidance. Here are some of the ways a health coach might assist.

Education and Awareness: A health coach can help you understand the nature of food addiction, it’s potential causes and it’s impact on your health and wellbeing. We can educate about the physiologically addictive properties of highly palatable foods and how they are engineered to keep you eating. And hungry. We can provide information and support for weight loss and metabolic illness challenges that so many people dealing with Food Addiction experience. 

Behavioral Change: Food Addiction usually involves emotional factors. A health coach can help you identify your underlying triggers and work with you to develop coping mechanisms and behavioral strategies for you to see and overcome unhealthy patterns. Clients report that just creating an awareness around emotional triggers goes a long way towards repairing their relationship with food. If you are trying to loose weight and not addressing the emotional piece, the likelihood for success is greatly diminished. 

Accountability and Support: A health coach provides ongoing support and accountability for your actions and goals. We help you stay in touch with your motivation, help you identify and celebrate your “wins” and navigate and plan for challenges.

Referral and Collaboration: A health coach can refer you to and work alongside other healthcare professionals such as therapists or physicians in order to provide comprehensive support throughout your journey. We are not a substitute for medical or mental health care but can complement the overall treatment plan provided by these professionals. 

We need to break the stigma and start a conversation around Food Addiction. Creating a supportive community as you navigate this challenge is crucial. Consultations are free. You are not alone!