I came across this video recently and think it’s one that I should share with YU. It’s an important presentation given by the founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), Neal Barnard MD, that discusses the science behind food additions—like the top dog I always hear about, and one we’ve discussed on YumUniverse—cheese. What was my biggest battle when I transitioned? Sugar.
The “sugar demon” was joked about quite a bit on my recent trip to California. Even though my vegan tripmates and I know about the opiate-like effect certain foods can have, we indulged under the convenient vacation excuse. Eating Apple Cinnamon muffins by the fire, under twinkling stars is pretty magical, but I knew that even though we located gluten-free and vegan treats to enjoy, that the sparkly, crunchy topping was definitely sugar. And I think we all knew that it would be a tough week post-vacay when the vacation pass wasn’t there. That sugar demon is strong, and as I sit here sipping some apple cider vinegar and water (a great way to curb cravings btw), I know that what I am feeling is not necessarily a lack of willpower, it’s my body asking where the heck are all the vacation treats? I’m exaggerating a bit to make a point. We weren’t going cookie-monster-crazy, but we tend to eat a very clean diet and even a little bit of indulgence here and there is very noticeable now. And for that I’m grateful. This plant-based diet is a journey and I’d rather be here than where I was years ago when sugar not only was consumed daily, but it made my eyes spin like starlight mints.
Back to Dr. Barnard. He is someone you should know more about if you don’t already, and this video is a great introduction. He discusses, in a humorous, simple way, how chocolate, cheese, meat, and sugar release opiate-like substances that hook us—from our very first days in this world (and even before that). He also discusses how industry, aided by government, exploits these natural cravings, pushing us to eat more and more unhealthy foods. A plant-based diet is the solution to avoid many of these problems and the more YU know, the more strength you can build to help you achieve your goals. So take the time to watch this vid (instead of a show on tv tonight), you’ll feel pretty inspired and empowered afterwards.
What do YU think of what Dr. Barnard has to say?
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This is Dr. Barnard’s complete presentation from the 2003 VegSource Healthy Lifestyle Expo. To get a copy of this talk on DVD and many others, visit the VegSource store.
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2 Comments to “Neal Barnard MD Discusses How Certain Foods are Physically Addicting”
this is gripping information–thanks for sharing this!!
This was awesome! Lots of great information!
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