In this episode of the Power in Motion podcast, Dr. Marianne Miller discusses her journey into the field of eating disorder treatment, focusing specifically on binge eating disorder.
In our conversation, Dr Marianne shared her personal experience with eating disorders which led her to do this work.
We discussed the misconceptions around eating disorders and how they can often be left undiagnosed and untreated because people don’t show the stereotypical signs.
We talked specifically about binge eating; what it is and how it’s different from overeating and what leads to binge eating. Dr Marianne shared where people often go wrong in trying to stop binging and how she successfully supports her clients and patients.
You’ll leave this episode with a greater understanding of binge eating and eating disorders in general as well as tangible next steps to take towards recovery.
Listen Here or Read the Episode Summary Below
Episode Summary
In the realm of mental health and wellness, understanding and overcoming eating disorders, particularly binge eating disorder (BED), remains a challenging journey for many. The podcast episode featuring Dr. Marianne Miller, an expert in treating eating disorders, sheds light on various facets of binge eating recovery techniques. As we navigate through the insightful conversation between Dr. Marianne and host Kim Hagle, we uncover a wealth of knowledge and guidance for those seeking recovery.
Understanding Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder is characterized by episodes of consuming large amounts of food within a short period, accompanied by feelings of lack of control, shame, and guilt. Dr. Marianne emphasizes that binge eating often stems from restrictive eating patterns, underscoring the importance of addressing the root causes to break the cycle of binge eating.
The Role of Restriction
A key takeaway from the conversation is that the primary trigger for binge eating episodes is dietary restriction. Many individuals restrict their food intake during the day, either by skipping meals or consuming minimal food, only to find themselves binging at night. Dr. Marianne explains how this creates a glucose deficit in the body, making it nearly impossible to resist the urge to binge on calorically dense foods. Understanding that restriction fuels the binge eating cycle is the first step towards recovery.
Overcoming Binge Eating: Recovery Strategies
Throughout the podcast, Dr. Marianne and Kim delve into various binge eating recovery techniques that have shown promise in helping individuals regain control over their eating habits.
Comprehensive Nourishment
The all foods fit model stands out as a powerful approach to recovery. By emphasizing that no foods are off-limits, individuals learn to listen to their bodies and eat in a way that nourishes them without restrictions. This approach challenges the societal obsession with wellness and thinness and encourages a healthier relationship with food.
Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies
Dr. Marianne highlights the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in treating binge eating disorder. These therapies focus on understanding the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and utilize techniques such as mindfulness and emotional regulation to address binge eating triggers.
Cultivating Self-Compassion
A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to discussing the importance of self-compassion in the recovery process. Binge eating is often accompanied by intense feelings of shame and self-loathing. Dr. Marianne suggests engaging in compassionate self-talk, imagining how you would treat a friend in a similar situation, and focusing on nurturing the wounded parts of oneself.
Misconceptions about Eating Disorders
An enlightening part of the conversation revolves around debunking common misconceptions about eating disorders. Dr. Marianne stresses that eating disorders do not have a specific “look” and that individuals across all body types can suffer from them. Recognizing that societal and familial pressures contribute to the development of eating disorders is crucial for both prevention and recovery.
Finding Support for Binge Eating Recovery
Navigating the journey towards recovery from binge eating disorder requires the right support. Dr. Marianne advises seeking help from professionals who specialize in eating disorders. For those unable to access one-on-one therapy, she mentions alternative resources such as online programs, coaching, and support groups. However, she warns against programs that disguise restrictive diets as recovery tools, emphasizing the importance of vetting resources thoroughly.
Closing Thoughts
As our exploration of binge eating recovery techniques comes to an end, it’s clear that the path to recovery is multifaceted, requiring a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the disorder. Dr. Marianne’s insights not only offer practical advice for those struggling with binge eating but also challenge societal norms that contribute to the prevalence of eating disorders.
For individuals embarking on their recovery journey, remember that progress takes time, and setbacks are part of the process. Cultivating a sense of hope and resilience, and surrounding oneself with supportive resources, can pave the way to healing and freedom from binge eating disorder.
About our Guest
Dr. Marianne Miller has been in the mental health field for 27 years and has specialized in eating disorders for the last 12 years. She was a full-time academic for 12 years and had a part-time eating disorder practice for much of that time until she left the university and went into private practice full-time in 2018. Dr. Marianne loves working with eating disorders as a therapist and a coach. She takes a non-diet, feminist approach that helps people of all genders live empowered, authentic lives. She embraces the Health at Every Size model, and is neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Follow Dr. Marianne on Instagram
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About the Host
Kim Hagle (she/her) is a Body Image Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, Registered Holistic Nutritionist, and founder of Radiant Vitality Wellness.
Through mindset and movement coaching she helps women develop a kinder relationship with their body so they can consistently fuel and move it in a way that supports their health without restricting food, doing tortuous exercise or constantly worrying about the number on the scale.
Radiant Vitality – Kim Hagle
Personal Trainer in Goderich, ON offering Size Inclusive Fitness to Women 35-55 in Huron County and Beyond
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