From the First Bite: A Complete Guide to Recovery from Food Addiction

by Kay Sheppard

Renowned therapist, eating disorder specialist and recovering food addict Kay Sheppard helps countless individuals win their battles over food addiction—people for whom diets, pills and purging have become a way of life. In 1993, her groundbreaking book, , explained the illness of food addiction from the physiological origins through recovery. Today, obesity is on the rise. In addition to the 300,000 overweight people in this country, millions more who may not look overweight are unable to control their eating. Sheppard’s follow-up book, From the First Biteoffers the latest medical insights into food addiction coupled with time-tested, practical advice. Unlike other books that are very dry in nature, this book includes compelling personal stories and do’s and don’ts from other recovering and relapsed food addicts, including the author herself, who began her own recovery in 1967. The book explains how to avoid the physiological and situational triggers that lead to relapse; how to confront the emotional issues behind food cravings; how to establish a balanced food plan that eliminates cravings; and how to avoid hidden dangers in cleverly packaged foods. The book also includes a handy Twelve-Step workbook. Just as Sheppard’s first book broke new ground, her latest work offers a critical first step for food addicts on the road to physical, emotional and spiritual recovery.

Genres: Self Help, Health, Diets

250 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[A.C. Bauch · Rating 3 out of 5]

For me, the most useful parts of this book pertain to the physical and psychological nature of food addiction and the impact the disease has on every aspect of a person's being. I skimmed the parts about the actual food plan, because my diet is quite different from the one prescribed (though my diet also eliminates or minimizes use of sugar and wheat). I also didn't read all the twelve step information in depth, since I just finished the twelve steps section in the actual Overeaters Anonymous book.

I'd recommend this book for anyone who is trying to overcome food addiction or wants to better understand the disease (e.g., if his or her spouse or another loved one is a food addict). Even though someone might not adhere to every principle presented in the book (as is the case with me), it's an excellent starting point for people who want to get on the recovery path.

[Lori · Rating 1 out of 5]

Another failed attempt to read a self-help book. I don't know why I bother. They never "speak" to me. I can't relate to the stories in this book. I did learn though that I am not a food addict. Just a person who loves to cook and eat great food. It's my metabolism that's the problem. Yea...that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this at the recommendation of my sponsor, and thought it was great reading to help my recovery from food addiction.

[Lynda · Rating 2 out of 5]

She has a lot of insights, but little follow through.

[Mellanie C]

I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13132435