The five stages of ultra processed food use disorder presented by Dr Vera Tarman
Dr Vera Tarman describes the concept of ultra-processed food use disorder (UPFUD). She explains how ultra-processed foods disrupt appetite regulation reducing our homeostatic (hormonal) control of appetite and increasing hedonic (dopamine reward-driven) mechanisms. This disruption is the driver behind UPFUD, an increase in visceral adiposity (not always body weight) and its resultant contribution to metabolic disease. The five stages of UPFUD are presented with each stage increasing neuroadaptation until eventually UPF’s are needed to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
The staged model of food addiction is presented as a framework to guide treatment, with different strategies required depending on severity—from dietary modification to abstinence-based approaches. While the concept of ultra processed food use disorder remains controversial and not yet formally recognised in diagnostic systems, Vera provides a thought-provoking perspective, encouraging reflection on the drivers of eating behaviour and the limitations of conventional nutrition approaches.
Learn about
- The distinction between homeostatic and hedonic drivers of eating, and how ultra-processed foods may disrupt both systems.
- The stages of food addiction and how these influence appropriate treatment approaches.
- Addressing addictive eating patterns—not just nutrient intake—may be critical for managing metabolic conditions.
Dr. Vera Tarman is an addiction physician based in Toronto, Canada, with over 20 years of experience specializing in sugar and food addiction. She is the author of Food Junkies: Recovery from Food Addiction, a text used in many programs and courses. As Medical Director of Renascent, she helped establish the first inpatient food addiction program in Canada. She co-hosts the Food Junkies Podcast and creates educational videos on her YouTube channel Vera Tarman MD. For peer support she founded and moderates the free Facebook group I'm Sweet Enough: Sugar-Free for Life where members share experiences and encouragement.