116: Freedom from Binge Eating: Vanessa Sturman’s Plant-Based Path to Recovery

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, affecting 1.2% of U.S. adults annually, with higher rates among females (1.6%) compared to males (0.8%), according to the National Institute of Mental Health. In the UK, BED accounts for approximately 22% of all eating disorder cases. These figures reflect the urgent need for effective strategies to address this pervasive issue. On this episode of the NHA Health Science Podcast, Dr. Frank Sabatino sits down with Vanessa Sturman, an award-winning transformational health coach from the UK, to explore her personal journey of overcoming binge eating and finding freedom through a plant-based lifestyle.

The Cycle of Binge Eating: A Personal Battle
Vanessa shares how societal pressures to conform to specific body ideals during her teenage years led to an unhealthy cycle of restrictive dieting, binge eating, and purging. At her lowest point, she felt consumed by obsessive thoughts about food and her weight. A pivotal moment of clarity, coupled with a strong desire to change, set her on the path to recovery.

The Healing Power of Plant-Based Eating
Vanessa describes how transitioning to evidence-based, plant-forward eating helped her regain control of her health. By prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods, she was able to manage cravings, feel fuller longer, and improve both her physical and emotional well-being. This approach became the foundation of her work as a transformational health coach.

Sustainability: A Framework for Success
Vanessa emphasizes sustainability as a cornerstone of her coaching philosophy. She helps clients build habits that last by focusing on practical, realistic strategies. This includes advocating for plant-based foods to not only improve health but also reduce environmental impact. Her dual focus on personal and planetary sustainability has made her a sought-after coach and speaker.

Freedom Through Abundance, Not Restriction
Contrary to traditional dieting models, Vanessa’s approach revolves around abundance. She helps clients incorporate foods they love into their meals while balancing them with nutrient-rich options. This approach eliminates guilt, fosters joy in eating, and leads to long-term success.

More on this episode: www.HealthScience.org/116-Vanessa-Sturman