The Dopamine Connection: Why ADHD and Binge Eating Go Hand in Hand with Kacee M Markarian LMFT

The Obesity Guide with Matthea Rentea MD

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Are binge eating and ADHD more connected than we think? So many people struggling with binge eating disorder feel trapped in cycles of food noise, shame, and self-blame. Layer in ADHD’s dopamine dysregulation, and it can feel nearly impossible to find control.

This week, I’m bringing back marriage and family therapist Kacee Markarian to dig deeper into that connection. Her message is clear: this isn’t your fault, it’s not about “willpower,” and it definitely won’t be solved by just removing trigger foods from your house.

Kacee explains why binge eating can feel like a trance, what’s really happening in the brain, and how small, practical shifts can quiet the food noise—without shame, restriction, or diet culture.If you’ve ever felt like your thoughts are consumed by when and what you’ll eat next, this episode offers both understanding and a compassionate path forward.

References

Visit Kacee’s website

Listen to my previous episodes with Kacee:

Ep. 127: Why Your Body Was Never the Problem with Kacee M Markarian LMFT

Ep. 128: Staying True to Fat Liberation While Caring for Your Health with Kacee M Markarian LMFT

Get Your FREE 3-Day Hunger Hormone Reset Mini Video Series

Audio Stamps

02:00 - Kacee redefines binge eating disorder (BED) beyond clinical definitions and discusses common misconceptions about the condition.

04:35 - Understanding the "food trance" state and how binge eating episodes feel different from normal food cravings.

05:49 - Why typical advice like removing trigger foods fails and the role of shame in preventing people from seeking help.

08:46 - Exploring the relationship between ADHD and binge eating disorder through brain chemistry and dopamine function.

11:58 - Four foundational lifestyle strategies for managing dopamine dysfunction and reducing binge eating episodes.

17:36 - Kacee's treatment approach focusing on addition rather than restriction when working with clients.

23:55 - Addressing the broader context of addiction, family history, and societal factors that contribute to eating disorders.

All of the information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only. Please talk to your physician and medical team about what is right for you. No medical advice is being on this podcast.
If you live in Indiana or Illinois and want to work with doctor Matthea Rentea, you can find out more on www.RenteaClinic.com

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