Marty Lerner Ph.D.

I consider compulsive overeating, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and some forms of anorexia (e.g. bulimarexia) to be part of an addictive process. Hence, we refer to these in terms of "food addiction." The drive or compulsion to overeat despite obvious consequences is somewhat like the plight of alcoholics and those suffering from other addictions. In fact, many food addicts are either currently struggling with, or have encountered problems with other dependencies. Compulsive eaters who resort to purging via laxatives, diuretics, diet pills, vomiting, food restriction, and/or excessive exercise are addicted to a vicious cycle of binge eating and a relentless effort to avoid weight gain (bulimia). Still others are equally driven to lose weight by purging in one form or another whether binge eating or not (bulimarexia).

I believe all food addicts have in common a debilitating obsession with food and body image coupled with an inability to manage or control their eating behavior. In fact, the real measure of an eating disorder is not just what someone weighs or how often they binge eat, restrict, exercise, or purge. Rather, it is the degree to which the quality of their life has deteriorated and their relationship with food has taken center stage in their life. Although food addiction presents itself in many different forms, the common denominator is a loss of control... first over food, then over the ability to effectively manage one's life.

There are a few  “implied” assumptions I have regarding the basic building blocks to recovering from any addiction – of which I consider most eating disorders to be. Let me be candid and put out there one of the most important assumptions I have – recovering from an eating disorder begins with a total commitment to remain consistent with a recovery program* no matter what we are feeling or what “tricks” our minds play with us.

*From a “recovery perspective” a program of recovery refers to maintaining a prescribed food plan (typically in conjunction with a dietitian or health professional with experience in the field of eating disorders), adherence to a moderate (also prescribed) schedule of regular exercise, finding and maintaining a healthy balance between work, rest, and play, and cultivating a personal connection with a support group and “higher power” of your own understanding. In our experience at Milestones, we refer to the basics of recovery as S.E.R.F. – spirituality, exercise, rest, and food plan.

Now for the tough part that separates a recovery program from a “diet program” disguised as “recovery”. Like most addictions and illnesses that center on our need for CONTROL, all eating disorders have in common the obsessive focus on the goal of total control of, in this case, weight or size. Letting go of control from a recovery perspective is not about “giving up” but rather following a prescribed program (as noted above) and letting go of the outcome – namely not making changes in response to feelings or perceived or real changes in our bodies. Allowing someone we trust, at least in the beginning, direct our food and exercise plans is a far more objective and ultimately successful means to find a solution to the mental tyranny that accompanies an eating disorder. To be sure, it takes a quantum leap of faith and courage to “turn over” control to someone other than yourself. In the end, sponsorship in an appropriate support group such as OA or EDA, making good use of a trusted and experienced professional, and cultivating a belief in your own understanding of a higher power will put you on the path to reclaiming your life.

Marty Lerner, PhD.

800-347-2364

WWW.MilestonesProgram.Org

mlerner@MilestonesProgram.Org