Do you ever feel like you’re just swapping one habit for another—whether it’s sugar, alcohol, or some other vice? You're not alone. Many of us experience this “habit dance,” and it can feel frustrating when you’re trying to create positive change.That’s why I’m excited to share this week’s podcast interview with Dr. Rebecca Williams, an award-winning psychologist and author. Dr. Williams has dedicated her career to mental health and addiction recovery, and in this episode, she shares simple, effective strategies to break the cycle and truly heal from within.Episode Highlights:Why sugar and alcohol often substitute each other in our lives—and how to break the cycle.Simple, mindful ways to soothe your mind and body when cravings hit.How to reclaim your home as a sanctuary for healing and behavior change.Tips for navigating social events without feeling left out or pressured.The “SUGAR” acronym: A powerful tool for managing cravings and emotions in recovery.Rebuilding relationships and finding new ways to connect without relying on substances.Whether you’re looking to cut out alcohol, sugar, or other unhealthy habits, this conversation will give you actionable insights to take charge of your wellness and make lasting, positive changes.Ready to transform your life? Listen to the full episode now and discover the small steps that can make a big difference in your mental and physical well-being.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Are you tired of navigating the confusing world of diet advice? If you've ever wondered which diet is truly best for you, this episode is going to be a game-changer.In our latest podcast, I sit down with Michael Kummer—a wellness expert who transformed his health by cutting out sugar, ditching processed foods, and exploring diets like paleo, keto, and carnivore. After facing migraines, prediabetes, and IBS, Michael's quest for optimal health led him to some powerful discoveries that might just be the solution you're looking for.Episode Highlights:Michael’s life-changing moment after discovering the hidden dangers of added sugars.How switching from a standard American diet to paleo, then keto, and finally carnivore, helped him heal his body.The connection between gut health and processed foods—and how the right diet can turn it around.His insights on how to identify the best diet for your unique body and avoid one-size-fits-all advice.Why whole foods and nutrient density should be at the core of every meal.Ready to take control of your health and discover what really works for you?Listen to the full interview with Michael Kummer and start your journey toward better health today!This episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring lessons that could help you transform your own life—just like it did for Michael and his family.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever wondered if the key to conquering your sugar addiction lies not in your diet, but in your mindset? In this episode of the Kick Sugar Coach Podcast, I sat down with Nina Sossamon-Pogue to explore how the principles of resilience can be the game-changer in your journey to overcome sugar addiction. Nina’s life story is one of continual reinvention—from training for the Olympics to facing career-ending injuries, to becoming a bestselling author and sought-after speaker. Through it all, she’s mastered the art of bouncing back stronger from every setback.What if you could apply that same resilience to your relationship with sugar?In this episode, you’ll discover:How Nina reinvented herself after a devastating injury and how her approach can help you reinvent your relationship with food.The crucial role of “now what” moments—those times when life throws you a curveball and you’re tempted to fall back into old habits—and how to navigate them successfully.Nina’s unique concept of a "reverse resume"—acknowledging and celebrating the challenges you’ve overcome as a way to fuel your ongoing recovery.Practical strategies for staying resilient during both the highs and lows of your sugar addiction recovery journey.Nina’s insights are not just about resisting temptation—they’re about reshaping how you see yourself and your ability to overcome challenges. Whether you’re just starting your recovery journey or have been struggling for years, this episode offers powerful tools to help you stay the course, adapt to setbacks, and ultimately, thrive.Ready to transform your approach to sugar addiction? Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation. Watch the full interview now and start applying resilience to reclaim control over your health and life.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Are you struggling with sugar cravings and wondering if there's a path to freedom? Discover the transformative journey of Rachel Murray, a registered holistic nutritionist and former nurse, who overcame her own sugar addiction and now helps others do the same. In this episode of the Kick Sugar Coach podcast, Rachel shares how she uncovered her unhealthy relationship with food during her teenage years and found clarity through Bitten Johnson's sugar assessment program. From nursing to specializing in nutrition, Rachel's story is filled with serendipitous moments that led her to focus on sugar addiction recovery.We explore the complex and often emotional process of overcoming sugar addiction. Rachel walks us through the initial steps she took, including specialized training and a holistic medicine of addiction program. She also opens up about the spiritual and psychological battles she faced, shedding light on the internal struggle against the voice that tempts moderation. Hear Rachel's heartfelt reflections on giving up beloved foods and learn her strategies for embracing long-term health over fleeting cravings.Understanding how hormonal fluctuations impact cravings is vital, especially for women. Rachel discusses the significant role hormones play at different life stages and shares her expert insights on distinguishing between emotional and physical hunger. Learn why hydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger and how a compassionate mindset can aid in recovery. Rachel's journey to a sugar and flour-free lifestyle since December 26, 2020, along with her professional expertise, offers listeners a comprehensive guide to balancing hormones and achieving a sustainable, healthy relationship with food.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Unlock the secrets of enhanced physical and mental health through the power of micronutrients in our latest episode! We sit down with Dallin, a brilliant biochemist from Hardy Nutritionals, to uncover the transformative impact of their flagship formula, Daily Essential Nutrients. Dallin offers a deep dive into the origins of Hardy Nutritionals, founded by his father David Hardy, who innovatively applied principles from animal nutrition to human health. Discover the critical role of broad-spectrum micronutrient supplementation and how it parallels between human and animal nutrition, emphasizing the importance of preventive care.Curious about the ongoing debates around essential nutrients like silica and lithium? We've got you covered. Learn about silica's role in soft tissue development and bone formation, and lithium's significant impact on mental health. Dallin explains the importance of addressing soil deficiencies and nutritional gaps that contribute to chronic diseases and mental health issues. Hear compelling stories of transformation driven by Hardy Nutritionals' products, inspired by personal experiences and fueled by ongoing research without financial incentives—all aimed at improving mental health and quality of life.Finally, we delve into the profound effects of micronutrient supplementation on maternal and infant health. Discover groundbreaking research that shows significant improvements in infant development when mothers with depression take Daily Essential Nutrients during pregnancy. We explore the potential of these nutrient-based interventions to optimize physiology, enhance mental health, and create long-term benefits for mothers and their developing babies. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that underscores the transformative power of proper nutrition for mental and physical well-being.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

What if breaking up with sugar and alcohol could unlock a radiant new chapter in your life? This episode promises to reveal the transformative journey of Dr. Sarah Seidelmann, a fourth-generation physician who reinvented herself from a hectic, nature-starved lifestyle into a shamanic mentor and author. Hear how Sarah battled a midlife sugar addiction with the help of the Bright Line Eating program and discover the profound changes she experienced in her energy levels and well-being. Sarah shares the hero's journey of her transformation, the initial resistance, and the eventual self-acceptance, giving listeners a candid look into her powerful story.Love and acceptance are pivotal in personal transformation, and this episode highlights the power of support groups and structured programs. Sarah shares her strategies for navigating social settings while maintaining dietary commitments, and the emotional journey of leaving behind old behaviors for a healthier, more fulfilling life. We explore her transition from medical doctor to shamanic mentor, discussing the profound lessons learned from nature and animal spirits. From writing books to embracing new social circles, Sarah's story is a testament to the interconnected nature of life and the unexpected guidance we receive along the way.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Ever wondered how a complete health transformation is possible after 50? Join us as we bring you an inspiring conversation with Lori Ballou, a certified functional nutrition diagnostic practitioner and health coach, who shares her remarkable journey. From battling obesity and depression to achieving a 100-pound weight loss, Lori's story is a testament to the power of holistic health approaches. In this episode, she reveals the sustainable health solutions she discovered and now uses to empower women over 50 to manage their blood sugar and reverse diabetes.Explore the often-overlooked aspects of gut health that play a critical role in weight management and overall well-being. Lori provides insights into the importance of addressing biofilms and overgrowths such as SIBO and SIFO. We discuss a compelling study on microbiome transplants in mice, shedding light on how gut bacteria influence obesity and epigenetics. This episode underscores the necessity of a personalized health approach, encompassing diet, rest, exercise, stress management, and targeted supplementation for lasting wellness.Discover the significance of identifying food sensitivities for effective weight loss and health improvement. Lori discusses the benefits of eliminating foods like eggs and wheat to reduce inflammation and enhance immune function. The episode also covers the Mediated Release Test (MRT) and its role in pinpointing food sensitivities, allowing for tailored dietary changes that can lead to significant health improvements. With practical tips and personal anecdotes, Lori highlights the transformative power of nutrition and lifestyle changes, offering actionable insights to help you reclaim your health.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

What if the key to your family's health lies in the food choices you make today? This week, we're joined by Dr. Sheila Carroll, a board-certified pediatrician and obesity medicine doctor, who shares the compelling story of her shift from traditional Western medicine to a focus on lifestyle and obesity medicine. Driven by her own childhood struggles with obesity and inspired by her father's medical journey, Dr. Carroll moved from prescribing medications to advocating for significant dietary changes, such as reducing flour and sugar intake. Her personal anecdotes reveal the drastic improvements in her health and highlight the transformative role of family involvement in nurturing healthier habits for children.Ever wondered how much hidden sugar is in your pantry? Dr. Carroll educates us on the surprising amounts of sugar found in common foods like spaghetti sauce and granola bars and stresses the critical role parents play in monitoring their children's sugar intake. She underscores the importance of becoming educated label readers to prevent long-term metabolic damage in children. Through gentle education and proactive lifestyle adjustments, families can work together to foster healthier futures. Dr. Carroll also explains the potential benefits and concerns surrounding new weight loss medications like Ozempic, particularly for young children, and the necessity of pairing them with solid lifestyle changes.Parents have the power to spearhead change in school food policies and the quality of nutrition available to children. In this episode, we discuss how mothers, in particular, can drive initiatives to remove unhealthy food options from schools and enhance hot lunch programs. Dr. Carroll shares practical strategies for making whole foods more appealing to children, such as involving them in grocery shopping and persistently offering a variety of healthy options. By leading by example, parents can empower their children to make healthier choices, fostering long-term benefits for their metabolic health. Join us to learn how to inspire your family towards a healthier lifestyle, one step at a time.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Unlock the secrets to emotional healing and mindful living in our latest episode with Annette Dubreuil, a passionate Canadian advocate for sustainability. Annette brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique approach to connecting with our bodies and nature through the practice of focusing. Inspired by Gene Gendlin's groundbreaking work, Annette shares her personal journey and insights into how this technique can transform your emotional well-being, particularly for those wrestling with emotional eating and addiction.Discover the six steps of focusing and learn how to create a grounded state by "clearing a space" and recognizing your physical sensations. Annette guides us through the process of identifying, describing, and understanding these sensations to achieve a sense of resonance and relief. By acknowledging different 'parts' of ourselves, such as the pleaser, the numbing part, and the critic, we can foster a compassionate relationship with our inner experiences. Annette's method offers a profound way to reconnect with our body's innate wisdom, providing a foundation for healthier emotional regulation and self-awareness.Explore practical applications of focusing for emotional awareness and mindful eating. Annette emphasizes the importance of recognizing our body's signals and incorporating self-compassion into our daily lives. By listening to our body's cues and addressing them mindfully, we can reduce emotional highs and lows, leading to more balanced eating habits and a more harmonious relationship with food. Join us for an enlightening conversation that could be a pivotal moment in discovering a valuable life skill to enhance your emotional health and overall well-being.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

What happens when you combine the raw, honest experiences of a mental health warrior with actionable strategies for wellness? Meet Bruce Shutter, our guest who’s been through the trenches of bipolar disorder, alcoholism, anxiety, and PTSD, and lived to tell the tale. Bruce doesn’t just share his story—he brings a powerful message about the intricate connection between diet and mental health, making us re-evaluate the role of sugar and refined carbohydrates in our lives.Discover Bruce’s compelling transition from high school struggles and self-medication with alcohol to facing intense stress as an EMT, which led him to legal troubles and psychiatric holds. In this episode, we unravel the undeniable link between nutrition, physical activity, and experiential living as keystones for mental wellness. Bruce’s insights, backed by his certifications in personal training, health coaching, and nutrition, reveal how simple lifestyle changes can be revolutionary. From reading food labels to maintaining a diet low in processed foods and hidden sugars, Bruce offers practical advice that anyone can follow.But that's not all—Bruce introduces his Mental Health Warrior Program, a holistic approach designed to empower individuals on their own paths to recovery and resilience. With tools like a free e-book and a motivational Mental Health Warrior Challenge Coin, Bruce’s program is rooted in actionable steps and personalized strategies. He shares how he moved from despair to a life full of enjoyment and challenges listeners to believe in their potential for growth and recovery. Whether you're searching for hope, practical tools, or just a story of triumph, this episode is packed with insights that promise to uplift and inspire.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

What if the everyday seed oils in your diet are the silent culprits behind chronic health issues? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Cate Shanahan, a Cornell-trained physician, author, and nutrition expert.  Dr. Shanahan discusses her latest book, "Dark Calories," sharing groundbreaking insights on the often overlooked connection between dietary fats, sugar addiction, and metabolic diseases. Dr. Cate's candid discussion takes us through the shortcomings of traditional medical training and highlights the importance of whole foods and ancient nutrition in addressing modern health problems. Her insights are both profound and practical, offering a fresh perspective on how dietary choices can be transformative for overall well-being. Prepare to be enlightened by Dr. Cate's passion for root-cause medicine and her empowering message about taking control of your health through better nutrition. Don't miss this engaging episode packed with valuable information and actionable advice.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever wondered if your struggles with sugar might be linked to something deeper, like your nervous system? Join us today as we dive into an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Joy Gandell, a fellow Canadian with a unique journey through sugar addiction and self-regulation. Discover how she connected the dots between her chronic acid reflux, emotional dysregulation, and sugar consumption, leading to a profound transformation in her health and well-being.With an impressive background that includes a BA in Psychology, an MSc in Administration, life coaching certifications, and more, Joy brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She shares her personal story of battling acid reflux during the pandemic, her restrictive diet journey, and the unexpected benefits of deep self-regulation practices that helped her regain control over her digestion and life.Learn about the tools and strategies Joy used to heal her nervous system and how she now helps others on their journey to reduce or eliminate sugar, improve their lifestyle, and achieve a state of calm and balance. Tune in to hear about the three critical aspects of self-regulation: self-control, balancing the nervous system, and energy management.This episode is packed with valuable insights, practical tips, and a heartfelt story that will leave you inspired to take control of your own health journey. Don't miss it!Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

In the most recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Linnea Offerman, a nurse and health coach who has successfully navigated the tumultuous waters of sugar and food addiction. Her journey is not just one of personal triumph but also serves as a blueprint for those seeking to achieve food sobriety and reclaim their health. Linnea's approach hinges on the elimination of sugar and flour, the incorporation of whole foods into her diet, and the invaluable role of community support.For Linnea, the road to recovery was marred by years of battling weight fluctuations and intense food cravings that led to a cycle of binge eating and guilt. Her decision to cut out sugar and flour was pivotal, leading to a dramatic transformation that not only changed her body but also her mental and emotional well-being. Linnea's story is a testament to the fact that despite the pressures of a busy life and the pervasive allure of processed foods, it is possible to break free from the chains of addiction.The podcast delves into the nuances of adopting a whole foods diet, which Linnea describes as a journey to freedom rather than a path of restriction. She shares how the strict boundaries she set around her food intake created a safe space for her to thrive, much like the healthy limits we set in various aspects of our lives to foster security and well-being. The concept of 'food sobriety' that Linnea introduces is about gaining control over one's dietary choices and, in turn, over one's life.A crucial aspect of Linnea's recovery was the strength she found in the community. The episode discusses how our host, also a working mother, struggled with her own food addiction and how reaching out on social media platforms like Instagram provided a lifeline. By connecting with others who shared similar struggles, a network of solidarity was formed. This network not only offered support but also held members accountable, which proved to be a powerful tool in combating addiction.One of the more enlightening discussions in the episode centers around the deceptive nature of flour as a health food. Linnea explains the impact of grinding flour on its fiber content and how this seemingly innocuous process can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar, much like processed sugar. The resulting crashes contribute to a vicious cycle of cravings and mood swings. The podcast doesn't shy away from tackling the challenges of introducing children to conscious eating habits, emphasizing the importance of teaching the next generation the value of nourishing their bodies with the right foods.As the episode draws to a close, the focus shifts to the subject of self-love and the transformative power of connecting with our emotions. Linnea shares her personal experiences of learning to cope with life's challenges without resorting to food as a crutch. The discussions are intimate, honest, and serve as a reminder that our relationship with food is deeply entwined with our emotional health.This podcast episode is more than a conversation about food; it is a celebration of personal growth, health, and the self-respect that comes from making choices that serve our highest good. Whether you're battling food addiction or simply seeking inspiration for a healthier lifestyle, Linnea OffermGot questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Are you ready to decode the puzzle of your metabolic health? Join us on an enlightening journey with Carlee Hayes, a registered dietitian and Senior Nutrition Manager at NutriSense, in our latest podcast episode.Discover how your unique responses to carbohydrates can shape your health. Learn why personalized nutrition is key and how Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) offer real-time insights into your body's reactions to different foods and meal timings.Carlee shares actionable tips that can seamlessly fit into your routine, like starting meals with protein and vegetables to stabilize blood sugar, timing your carbs for optimal glucose control, and simple practices like taking a short walk after meals.This episode empowers you to take control of your health with curiosity and informed choices. Tune in and unlock the tools and knowledge you need for a healthier future.Listen now and take the first step toward mastering your metabolic health!Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

In a world where convenience often dictates our food choices, the true cost of such decisions remains hidden from the average consumer. In this week's episode, Dr. Joan Ifland, an expert on Food Addiction, discusses the impacts of ultra-processed foods on health and addiction, revealing startling insights into our eating habits and their consequences.Dr. Ifland begins by examining the NOVA organization's food classifications, which are instrumental in identifying the myriad of ingredients present in today's food products. NOVA categorizes foods based on their processing level, and while this system helps to highlight the link between ultra-processed foods and health issues, it is not without its shortcomings. The complexity arises when attempting to discern the line between causation and correlation, particularly as it pertains to the relationship between obesity and the consumption of processed foods. Dr. Ifland argues that physical limitations associated with obesity might limit an individual's ability to prepare home-cooked meals, rather than processed foods being the direct cause of health problems.Further complicating the issue is NOVA's designation of certain ingredients, such as sugar and flour, as safe for home cooking, despite their potential to trigger addiction pathways similar to those affected by hard drugs. This conversation illuminates the hidden dangers in our diets, as even ingredients deemed 'safe' can be problematic for individuals with a predisposition to food addiction. Dr. Ifland urges caution and emphasizes the need for clarity in our understanding of what truly constitutes a 'healthy' diet.The discussion delves deeper into the nature of food addiction and recovery, citing over two thousand studies that suggest processed foods can activate the brain's reward pathways in much the same way as opiates. Dr. Ifland's stance is clear: a return to simplicity and whole foods is paramount. The struggle many face with moderation, particularly within eating disorder programs, can lead to a cycle of shame and continued unhealthy eating. Dr. Ifland advocates for the recognition of problematic foods—specifically processed and ultra-processed items—and calls for a dismissal of the polarizing debates that often overshadow dietary discussions.One of the most profound connections drawn by Dr. Ifland is the link between eating disorders and addiction, particularly the hyperactivity of reward systems within the brain. This similarity may indicate that for some individuals, abstinence could be a more viable path to recovery than moderation. Yet, she acknowledges the immense emotional and cultural hurdles that come with forsaking processed foods, which are often entwined with family traditions and expressions of love.The episode concludes with a call to action. Listeners are encouraged to join the movement advocating for clearer terminology and understanding around food processing and addiction. Dr. Ifland's insights are not merely for contemplation but for tangible change. By recognizing the effects of dietary choices and advocating for a common language, society can take steps toward improved health and awareness.Read More: Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Unlock the secrets that food manufacturers don't want you to know as we sit down with Wolfram Alderson, an authority on hidden sugars and metabolic health. In a riveting conversation, Wolfram takes us through his trailblazing efforts from pushing for California's farmers market legislation to his current battle against the hidden dangers lurking in our food. With a wealth of experience, he expertly peels back the layers of complexity surrounding food data, revealing how consumers and policymakers can become savvy about the covert sugars in our everyday meals. This episode promises to arm you with the knowledge to make healthier choices and advocate for transparency in the food industry.Are you puzzled by the paradox of gaining weight from non-caloric sweeteners or curious about the metabolic benefits of alternative sweeteners like allulose? This episode tackles these questions head-on, diving into the challenges food companies face in reducing sugar while satisfying our collective sweet tooth. Discover how names like "maltodextrin" and "evaporated cane juice" mask the true sugar content in products, and learn how resources like the Added Sugar Repository can help unveil these hidden additives. We discuss the tactics food manufacturers use to incorporate sugar, exploring its functional benefits and the seductive allure that keeps consumers coming back for more.Finally, we explore the transformative potential of viewing food as a form of medicine and the shifts within the industry towards healthier offerings. Wolfram shares his insights into the Metabolic Matrix and its role in catalyzing positive changes in nutrition. We also touch on the interplay between health, love, and societal change, drawing from Wolfram's upcoming book on unconditional love. By the end of this episode, you'll be inspired to join us in reimagining a future where informed food choices lay the foundation for health and well-being. Join the movement towards a world where food not only satisfies our hunger but also nourishes our bodies and souls.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever considered the profound ways in which trauma shapes our health, behavior, and the very foods we long for in times of stress? Dr. Aimie Apigian joins us to explore this intricate tapestry, unraveling how our bodies' responses to trauma are far more than psychological - they're deeply rooted in our biology. Journeying through our autonomic nervous system, we examine why certain comfort foods seem irresistible and the unexpected role of the vagus nerve in our quest for emotional balance.Many of us have felt the paradoxical pull towards the very foods that don't agree with us, especially during periods of emotional upheaval. This episode peels back the layers of this mysterious craving, revealing how our bodies may be seeking immediate survival through an energy boost. Dr. Aimie and I discuss the hidden power of gluten and dairy to bind to our nervous system's opiate receptors, offering a temporary numbing effect that can mimic comfort. It's a revelation that underscores the importance of understanding our body's survival responses and the transformative potential of cultivating inner safety.But it's not all about the science. In the latter part of our conversation, we engage in practical strategies and exercises that can help us navigate through and beyond these overwhelming experiences. From the 'push away' technique to the calming presence of a pillow, we provide listeners with tangible tools to foster self-regulation, evoke the body's relaxation response, and embark on a deeper journey of healing. With Dr. Aimie's expertise and heartfelt guidance, this episode is a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to transform their relationship with trauma and find a path to lasting well-being.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Sugar has become a staple in modern diets, but the impact it has on our health is far from sweet. Dr. Rob Lufkin, a respected physician and author, brings to light the dark side of sugar consumption and its pervasive role in promoting chronic diseases. From the onset of metabolic syndrome to its influence on Alzheimer's, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer, sugar's impact is extensive and often underestimated.Dr. Lufkin's personal journey of health enlightenment underscores the urgent need for medical curriculum reform. He points out the flawed nutrition wisdom ingrained in medical education, where the oversimplified mantra of "a calorie is just a calorie" fails to account for the complexity of metabolic health. His recovery from metabolic syndrome not only transformed his own life but also fueled his passion to educate others, particularly future medical professionals, about the intricacies of diet and disease.The podcast episode delves into the science of glycation and the activation of the mTOR protein, both of which are closely linked to aging and are exacerbated by sugar intake. Dr. Lufkin's insights into how our bodies can switch from glucose to ketones as an energy source reveal a potential pathway to better health and longevity. By reducing sugar consumption and embracing intermittent fasting, we can encourage our bodies to use ketones, thus mitigating the detrimental effects of sugar.Moreover, Dr. Lufkin discusses the pervasive prevalence of metabolic syndrome, a condition that's alarmingly common among American adults. He challenges the conventional view of type 2 diabetes as an all-or-none condition, advocating for a perspective that sees it as a gradual progression correlated with aging. This rethinking prompts a proactive approach to dietary choices, regardless of whether one has been diagnosed with diabetes.As the conversation turns towards sugar substitutes and pharmaceuticals like rapamycin, the episode offers a balanced look at lifestyle modifications and medical interventions. Dr. Lufkin emphasizes that while medications can play a role, it is the dietary choices that hold the key to combating the onslaught of chronic diseases and aging. The use of sugar substitutes, for instance, while seemingly beneficial, can still trigger insulin production and may have unintended consequences on the microbiome and taste preferences.In conclusion, the episode leaves listeners with a powerful message of empowerment. By understanding the profound impact of sugar on our health and making informed dietary decisions, we can take control of our well-being and combat the chronic diseases that threaten our quality of life. Dr. Lufkin's transformation and advocacy for change serve as a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of health and nutrition in pursuit of a longer, healthier life.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Tackling sugar addiction is more than a battle of willpower; it's a journey of understanding the neuroscience behind our cravings and learning how to heal our brain for lasting change. Dr. Susan Pierce-Thompson's podcast episode is a deep dive into this process. She shares her personal story of overcoming drug addiction and obesity, highlighting her transition from a life ensnared by addictive behaviors to one where she could exercise control over her eating habits through the Bright Line Eating program.The episode addresses the human brain's intricate landscape, which is highly responsive to rewards and susceptible to addiction. Our brains are wired to remember and seek out the cues that predict these rewards, a mechanism that can lead to an increased susceptibility to addiction in environments where food cues are omnipresent. This conversation between the host and Dr. Thompson offers an in-depth exploration of how we can transition from a dopamine-driven existence to one where serenity is achieved through balanced brain chemistry, a state influenced by a mix of neurotransmitters including serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins.Embarking on a journey toward better health often means rewriting one's identity, and the Bright Line Eating program is designed to facilitate this transformation. The conversation emphasizes the difference between a temporary diet and a lifestyle change, where new eating habits become an integral part of one's identity. The four Bright Lines—no sugar, no flour, eating only at meals, and measuring quantities—provide clarity and a structured path for those seeking sustainable weight loss, challenging the promises of quick fixes offered by diet medications.Dr. Thompson also shares her insights on the concept of 'crystal vase recovery,' likening the fragility and strength of recovery to a rare and valuable object that must be cared for diligently. This analogy reinforces the ongoing vigilance required to maintain recovery from addiction. The episode further delves into the healing potential of internal family systems and parts work in psychology, illustrating how engaging with different aspects of our psyche can lead to healthier coping strategies and a more harmonious internal family system.As the episode concludes, there's an expression of gratitude for individuals like Dr. Thompson who have dedicated their lives to improving health and nutrition, inspiring listeners to strive for a balanced existence. The heartfelt appreciation for the work done in distinguishing between effective and ineffective dietary practices is palpable, as is the collective effort to address food-related issues and guide others toward happiness and balance.This episode not only shares the remarkable journey of Dr. Thompson but also serves as an educational resource on the science of addiction and recovery. It's a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom from the clutches of sugar addiction and offers practical, scientifically-backed advice for achieving a healthy relationship with food.For anyone struggling with food addiction or simply seeking to improve their relationship with eating, this podcast episode with Dr. Susan Pierce-Thompson is a must-listen. It's an inspiring reminder that recovery is not only possible but can be sustained with thGot questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Discover the transformative power of lifestyle medicine with Dr. David Cavan, who joins us to share his remarkable shift from a traditional to a pioneering approach in diabetes management. Prepare to be enlightened by Dr. Cavan's insights on the potency of nutrition and patient empowerment in turning the tide against type 2 diabetes. Drawing inspiration from Professor Roy Taylor's innovative research, our conversation illuminates how simple dietary modifications, primarily the reduction of carbohydrates, have set patients on a path to reclaiming their health. This episode promises to change your perspective on managing diabetes and introduce you to practical strategies that could lead to its reversal.This week's discussion cuts through the confusion surrounding diabetes, clearly distinguishing between the autoimmune nature of type 1 and the lifestyle-induced type 2. We tackle the stigmas and misconceptions associated with these conditions, emphasizing the importance of a sympathetic understanding of every individual's battle with diabetes. Dr. Cavan and I shed light on the dark corners of food culture, sugar consumption, and their contributions to the diabetes epidemic, offering a compassionate roadmap for making informed changes to one's diet. Through engaging stories and a focus on personalized care, we underscore the significance of dietary choices and glucose monitoring in potentially reversing type 2 diabetes.We wrap up the conversation with an inspiring story of Eric, a patient who found diabetes remission through a holistic approach, and discuss the synergistic roles of diet, physical activity, and intermittent fasting. These practices, which once were ancestral norms, are now powerful tools in our modern fight against diabetes. Dr. Cavan also gives us a glimpse into his forthcoming book, promising to be an invaluable resource for anyone looking to take an active role in their health journey. Tune in for an episode that not only challenges conventional wisdom but also champions the idea that it's never too late to make life-altering improvements to your well-being.Got questions? I'd like to hear from you.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE