camft.org | Foodaholic Seven Stages to Permanent Weight Loss

Foodaholic: The Seven Stages to Permanent Weight Loss, written by Irene Rubaum- Keller, LMFT, and published by Mill City Press (2011), is an engaging read, addressed to readers wishing to shed excess weight, whether it be over 100 pounds or “just” a few extra pounds. Rubaum-Keller is herself a veteran of the challenging journey through weight loss, having lost 50 pounds 20 years ago and, more impressively, having maintained her goal weight. Thus, readers can take heart that the author knows the territory and has identified principles that she and many of her psychotherapy clients have found to be effective.

Rubaum-Keller concedes that it is a “bumpy road” to successful weight loss and freedom from food addiction but maintains that this is possible, speaking from her personal experience. The concepts of “permanent” weight loss and “freedom from food addiction” are not meant to be understood as utopia and an absence of any trouble with weight, compulsive behaviors, or thoughts about food, but rather an ability to manage such matters without their destroying one’s life. While this may not be the message many people wish to hear, it is the reality for most people dealing with weight and food issues. It is to Rubaum- Keller’s credit that she doesn’t try to sugarcoat the situation, so to speak.

The book outlines in simple and helpful fashion the seven stages of the weight loss and maintenance process, with enjoyable stories that will resonate with many readers. The book lists practical tips, such as facing the truth about one’s current weight and size, keeping a food journal, tracking one’s weight, and exercising. In addition, as a therapist Rubaum-Keller understands the multitude of psychological minefields littering the terrain of healthy weight loss and provides important advice to deal with potential self-sabotage, such as treating oneself with kindness, slaying the “stuck” voice, and being willing to endure emotional discomfort when relinquishing excess food. Included are other topics such as dealing with weight-loss plateaus, injuries and illness, the holidays, and finding new ways to reward oneself.

The author employs an empathic approach, often functioning as a cheerleader while also being blunt at times, such as when describing the research that demonstrates how high fat, high salt, and high sugar foods activate the same neural reward pathways as do drugs of abuse. Thus, she doesn’t vilify certain foods, explaining that there is no one-sizefits- all ideal food plan, but does point out the potential pitfalls of some substances for various individuals. The book functions primarily as a friendly, practical, and workable structure for a healthy relationship with one’s body and more importantly one’s self during and after the weight loss and maintenance process, which as the author points out, is an on-going journey.


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