Episode 225: Dr. Vera Tarman & Bitten Jonsson Reflect on Food Addiction Recovery

In this extraordinary episode, Food Junkies host Dr. Vera Tarman turns the mic on herself—joined by Swedish trailblazer Bitten Jonsson—for a deeply personal, no-holds-barred conversation on their parallel journeys through food addiction, recovery, and advocacy. With over 60 years of combined experience in addiction medicine, Vera and Bitten walk us through the moments they first recognized their struggles with food and sugar, the evolving science of addiction, and how their professional paths have shaped the global conversation around Ultra-Processed Food Addiction.

💡 What You’ll Hear In This Episode:

• When and how Vera and Bitten each first realized they had a problem with food

• Bitten’s early days applying addiction models to sugar use in Sweden

• Vera’s turning point from bulimia and obsession to scientific clarity

• The evolution of treatment approaches—from restrictive diets to holistic care

• Why the addiction model matters—and how it still faces resistance

• Stories of frustration, discovery, and determination

• The roots of their pioneering programs, books, and diagnostic tools

• What’s next for food addiction science and how professionals can catch up

• And yes, the dogs that helped heal their hearts 🐶

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• “Food addiction” is too broad—refined sugar and flour are the real psychoactive substances

• Early recovery often mimicked diet culture—freedom came through connection and knowledge

• Recovery is not just physical or behavioral—it’s metabolic, neurological, psychological, and spiritual

• Both Vera and Bitten believe we’re at a turning point: a renaissance in food addiction awareness and professional training

🌍 Where Do We Go From Here?
Vera and Bitten envision a future where every doctor, nurse, therapist, and policymaker is trained in recognizing and treating food addiction. They call for compassion, clarity, and connection in how we talk about—and treat—this misunderstood condition.

🐾 And yes, there are dogs. Because sometimes, unconditional love and a wagging tail really can help us stay the course.

🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone.
Let’s end the shame—and start the healing.

🌱Transform Within IFS Workshop with Vanessa Kreddler: https://sweetsobriety.newzenler.com/courses/transform-within

💌 Email us at foodjunkiespodcast.com

The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.