Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast

About Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast

Explore the powerful connection between nutrition, mental health, and addiction recovery with Christina Veselak, a trailblazer in nutritional mental health and founder of the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition. This interview-based podcast, "Power Up Recovery with Nutrition," dives deep into how amino acids and targeted nutritional strategies can transform brain chemistry, build resilience, and support sustainable recovery. Christina's expertise is showcased through engaging interviews with leading experts, practitioners, and inspiring voices from the recovery community, as well as solo episodes addressing key topics in the field. Whether you're on a personal recovery journey, a functional nutritionist seeking advanced tools, or a healthcare professional eager to expand your knowledge, this podcast offers practical advice, compelling stories, and the latest innovations. Academy members will find it an invaluable resource for deeper learning and staying connected to cutting-edge practices. Explore how Christina Veselak bridges the gap between nutrition and mental well-being, one conversation at a time. Fuel your recovery, elevate your practice, and empower transformation. It's time to make nutrition part of the conversation. Tune in to "Power Up Recovery with Nutrition" and join us as we unlock the potential of targeted nutrition to support mental health and addiction recovery.

Publisher

Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition

Category

education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

6 Jan 2025

Latest episode

16 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

52 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Oct 2026

   Why Sobriety Isn't Enough: The Role of Nutrition in Lasting Recovery with Debbie Nelson S02E39

   In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Debbie Nelson, Founder of Revolutionary Mental Health and a mental health and addiction recovery coach, to explore the connection between addiction recovery, nutrition, blood sugar balance, brain chemistry, psychiatric medications, and long-term wellness. Debbie shares her personal journey from alcohol and Adderall abuse to discovering a more comprehensive approach to recovery. After entering traditional treatment, she achieved sobriety but continued struggling with fatigue, emotional distress, and the effects of multiple psychiatric medications. Her search for lasting wellness eventually introduced her to amino acid therapy, nutritional support, and the importance of addressing the body's underlying needs during recovery. Together, Christina and Debbie discuss why getting sober does not always mean getting well. They explore the limitations Debbie experienced in traditional addiction treatment, the connection between blood sugar instability and cravings, the role of neurotransmitters in managing stress, and why nutrition may be an overlooked component of recovery. This conversation offers a powerful perspective on addiction and mental health, emphasizing that recovery is not simply about willpower, discipline, or abstinence. It is also about understanding the brain, supporting physical health, addressing nutritional needs, and creating a foundation for lasting wellness. Key Topics Covered Why getting sober and getting well are not always the same thing Debbie's personal journey through alcohol and Adderall abuse and traditional addiction treatment The challenges of relying solely on psychiatric medications and the 12-step recovery model How blood sugar instability, nutritional deficiencies, and neurotransmitter imbalances may contribute to cravings and emotional distress Why individuals in recovery may turn to sugar, caffeine, or other substances to cope with discomfort The connection between trauma, chronic stress, sleep difficulties, and substance use How amino acid therapy, protein intake, and nutritional education became important parts of Debbie's recovery Why shame, stigma, and self-blame can create additional barriers to lasting recovery The importance of education, individualized nutritional support, and a more comprehensive approach to mental health and addiction recovery Meet Our Guest Debbie Nelson is the Founder of Revolutionary Mental Health, a mental health and addiction recovery coach, podcast host, and advocate for holistic approaches to mental health and addiction recovery. In 2014, Debbie began her transformative journey toward healing from alcohol and Adderall abuse. Her experiences with traditional addiction treatment led her to question approaches centered primarily on psychiatric medications and the 12-step model, inspiring her to explore additional ways to support mental health and long-term recovery. Through energy healing, prayer, introspection, nutritional education, and amino acid therapy, Debbie discovered approaches that helped her address the physical and emotional challenges she continued to experience after achieving sobriety. Her journey eventually connected her with Christina Veselak and the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition, where she gained a deeper understanding of the relationship between nutrition, blood sugar regulation, neurotransmitters, and recovery. Over the past decade, Debbie has worked with a renowned center specializing in non-traditional approaches to mental health and addiction treatment. She has also become an advocate for expanding access to education and integrative recovery resources. As the Founder of Revolutionary Mental Health, Debbie has developed initiatives that connect individuals with practitioners, educational resources, and alternative approaches to mental health and addiction recovery. She also launched a mental health podcast to share emerging perspectives and advanced healing modalities. At the heart of Debbie's mission is the belief that lasting recovery requires more than simply stopping substance use. It involves supporting the brain and body, understanding individual needs, and empowering people with the knowledge and tools to build healthier, more fulfilling lives. Connect with Debbie Nelson Website: www.iamdebbienelson.com (https://www.iamdebbienelson.com/) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577140228857 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revolutionarymentalhealth_/ Practical Takeaways Sobriety and wellness are not necessarily the same. Stopping substance use is an important milestone, but addressing ongoing physical, emotional, and nutritional needs may be essential to feeling better. Recovery involves more than willpower. Stress, trauma, sleep disturbances, nutritional status, and brain chemistry can influence cravings and the ability to cope with difficult emotions. Blood sugar stability matters. Debbie and Christina emphasize the importance of regular, protein-containing meals to support energy, mood, and blood sugar regulation. Substituting one coping mechanism for another is worth recognizing. Excessive sugar or caffeine consumption may become a way of managing fatigue, stress, or discomfort during recovery. Nutritional support should be individualized. Debbie describes how learning about amino acids, dietary habits, and her body's needs became an important part of her recovery. Supplements and medication changes should be guided by qualified healthcare professionals. Shame is not a recovery strategy. Understanding the physical and emotional factors contributing to addiction can help individuals approach recovery with greater compassion and less self-blame. Education can empower meaningful change. Learning about nutrition, brain function, and healthier coping strategies may help individuals take a more active role in their recovery. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Sleep, nutrition, stress management, and emotional support can work together as part of a comprehensive recovery plan. Recovery is an ongoing process. Debbie's journey demonstrates the value of continued learning, professional guidance, and finding approaches that support long-term health and wellbeing. Resources Mentioned Revolutionary Mental Health – Debbie Nelson's initiative focused on holistic mental health, addiction recovery education, practitioner connections, and advanced healing approaches. Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition – Christina Veselak's educational organization offering training in amino acid therapy and nutritional approaches to mental health and addiction recovery. Eating Protein Saves Lives – Christina Veselak's nonprofit initiative advocating for the importance of nutrition and protein intake in mental health and addiction recovery. Alternative to Meds Center – A treatment center Debbie discusses in relation to her professional experience with integrative approaches to mental health and addiction recovery. Amino Acid Therapy – Discussed as a targeted nutritional approach to supporting brain chemistry, neurotransmitter function, and recovery, with individualized professional guidance. Post-Acute Withdrawal – Discussed in relation to ongoing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, and cravings following initial withdrawal. Interested in Sponsoring the Podcast? The Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast reaches an audience interested in addiction recovery, mental health nutrition, amino acid therapy, and brain-based recovery support. If your organization, program, or brand aligns with this mission, we invite you to explore podcast sponsorship opportunities. Learn more here:  https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/ Explore recovery nutrition resources, courses, and professional training from the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ Learn more about the Feeding the Recovering Brain movement: https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/ Support the nonprofit initiative Eating Protein Saves Lives, and help spread the message that protein throughout the day can support brain health, cravings, and recovery: https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ (https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/) Start with Christina Veselak's book, EAT! A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

2. 

   28 Sept 2026

   From Cravings to Recovery: Understanding Processed Food Addiction with Dr. Joan Ifland S02E38

   In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Joan Ifland, PhD, MBA, FACN, a pioneer in food addiction recovery, to explore the connection between processed foods, cravings, brain function, addiction, and recovery. Joan shares how her own experience with eliminating sugar and flour led her to recognize the powerful effect food could have on cravings, energy, brain fog, and emotional wellbeing—and ultimately inspired her decades of work in processed food addiction. Together, Christina and Joan discuss why struggles with processed foods may go far beyond willpower. They explore food cues, environmental triggers, marketing, sugar and processed foods in substance use recovery, blood sugar stability, amino acids, self-compassion, and the importance of supportive communities. This conversation offers a different way of understanding cravings and recovery—one that considers not only personal choices, but also brain chemistry, environment, social connection, and the powerful influences surrounding the foods we eat. Key Topics Covered Why processed food cravings may involve more than willpower How sugar, fat, salt, food cues, and availability may influence cravings The connection between processed food addiction and substance use recovery Why some people in early recovery may shift toward sugar and highly processed foods How food marketing and environmental triggers can affect the brain and behavior Why shame and self-blame may make recovery harder The role of regular meals, blood sugar stability, and avoiding deprivation Why community and social environment can be critical to long-term recovery How amino acids, nutrition, and other supportive practices may fit into a broader recovery approach Meet Our Guest Joan Ifland, PhD, MBA, FACN, is a pioneer in the field of food addiction recovery and has been developing innovative approaches to recovery from processed food addiction since 1999. She is the lead editor of Processed Food Addiction: Foundations, Assessment, and Recovery, published by CRC Press in 2018, and is the lead author of the first scholarly publication describing refined food addiction and defining addictive foods. Dr. Ifland is a Fellow of the American College of Nutrition. She earned her PhD in Addictive Nutrition from Union Institute and University in 2010, her MBA from Stanford Business School in 1978, and her BA in Economics and Political Science from Oberlin College in 1974. She was also selected by the Oprah Winfrey Network as the food addiction specialist on The Book of John Gray. Dr. Ifland has developed several resources and programs focused on food addiction recovery, including The Addiction Reset Community (ARC), Food Addiction Education, RESET WEEK, and her Meal Prep Manual. At the center of her work is the understanding that recovery from processed food addiction involves more than willpower and may be strengthened through education, structured eating, supportive environments, community, and practical recovery tools. Connect with Dr. Joan Ifland Website: www.processedfoodaddiction.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1806154526275515 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodaddictionreset/ Practical Takeaways Cravings can be influenced by brain chemistry, stress, food availability, environmental cues, and social surroundings Identifying triggers may be more useful than blaming yourself for experiencing cravings Joan encourages approaching lapses with self-compassion rather than shame Eating complete, adequately portioned meals regularly may help reduce excessive hunger and vulnerability to cravings Your home environment matters; reducing exposure to highly triggering foods may make recovery easier People recovering from substance use may benefit from noticing whether sugar or processed foods are becoming another way of coping or regulating emotions Supportive communities can help create new habits and make healthier behaviors feel more normal Nutrition, amino acids, breath work, meditation, and community may all play complementary roles in a broader recovery approach Resources Mentioned Processed Food Addiction: Foundations, Assessment, and Recovery – Dr. Joan Ifland's textbook on processed food addiction The Addiction Reset Community (ARC) – Joan's online food addiction recovery community How the Other Half Eats by Priya Fielding-Singh – discussed in relation to food access, socioeconomic conditions, and food environments The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous – discussed in relation to historical practices involving sugar during alcohol recovery Amino Acid Therapy – discussed as part of nutritional support for the brain during recovery Interested in Sponsoring the Podcast? The Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast reaches an audience interested in addiction recovery, mental health nutrition, amino acid therapy, and brain-based recovery support. If your organization, program, or brand aligns with this mission, we invite you to explore podcast sponsorship opportunities. Learn more here:  https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/ Explore recovery nutrition resources, courses, and professional training from the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ Learn more about the Feeding the Recovering Brain movement: https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/ Support the nonprofit initiative Eating Protein Saves Lives, and help spread the message that protein throughout the day can support brain health, cravings, and recovery: https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ (https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/) Start with Christina Veselak's book, EAT! A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

3. 

   29 Aug 2026

   Neurofeedback for Addiction Recovery: How Brain Training Supports Healing with John Mekrut S02E37

   In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with John Mekrut, Founder of the Balanced Brain Neurofeedback Training Center in Los Angeles, to explore how neurofeedback may help the brain develop greater self-regulation and support recovery from addiction and mental health challenges. John explains how neurofeedback allows the brain to observe its own activity in real time and gradually learn more efficient patterns of functioning. Rather than thinking of neurofeedback as a treatment being done to someone, he describes it as training: the brain receives information about its own activity and learns through repetition how to regulate itself more effectively. Together, Christina and John explore the connection between brain dysregulation, cravings, addiction, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, sleep, nutrition, and relapse vulnerability. John explains how substances and behaviors such as alcohol, nicotine, sugar, gambling, and even compulsive shopping can become ways the brain learns to regulate uncomfortable internal states. They also discuss why neurofeedback should not be viewed as a magic bullet. John emphasizes that brain training works best as part of a broader approach that includes nutrition, restorative sleep, hydration, healthy relationships, emotional healing, and other lifestyle factors that support brain function. A major focus of the conversation is the relationship between nutrition and neurofeedback. Christina and John discuss amino acids as building blocks for neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin and why the brain needs adequate nutritional support in order to function and adapt effectively. This conversation offers a fascinating look at neuroplasticity, self-regulation, and the brain's capacity to change, while reminding us that lasting recovery often requires addressing the whole person rather than searching for a single solution. Key Topics Covered What neurofeedback is and how brain training works The difference between neurofeedback training versus treatment How the brain learns through feedback and repetition Neuroplasticity and the brain's ability to develop new patterns How brain dysregulation may contribute to anxiety, poor sleep, difficulty focusing, and other symptoms The connection between brain self-regulation and addiction recovery Why alcohol, nicotine, sugar, gambling, shopping, and other behaviors can become tools for regulating uncomfortable internal states How neurofeedback may support cravings and relapse prevention Why ADHD, PTSD, trauma, and traumatic brain injury can complicate recovery The relationship between nutrition, amino acids, and neurotransmitter production Why dopamine and serotonin depend on adequate nutritional building blocks How neurofeedback and nutritional support may complement one another The importance of sleep, hydration, nutrition, nature, relationships, and emotional health Why neurofeedback should not be viewed as a magic bullet The role of personal participation and lifestyle change in long-term recovery Why an integrative approach may be more effective than focusing on a single symptom or intervention Meet Our Guest John Mekrut is the Founder of the Balanced Brain Neurofeedback Training Center in Los Angeles. After many years working as a talent representative in Hollywood, John transitioned into neurofeedback after witnessing the transformative effects brain training had on his daughter, who was on the autism spectrum. The experience inspired him to pursue professional training in neurofeedback and explore how the brain can use its own signals to develop greater self-regulation. John trained at the Othmer Institute, where he continues his professional development, and has also trained with Dr. David Kaiser in QEEG acquisition and analysis to help guide his work with traditional amplitude neurofeedback. His approach incorporates principles of functional medicine and whole-person health, recognizing that brain function cannot be separated from the health of the body. At Balanced Brain, this broader approach includes neurofeedback alongside nutritional lab testing, biometrics, coaching, restorative sleep, nutrition, and other factors that may influence brain performance. At the heart of John's work is the belief that the brain is highly adaptable and capable of learning new patterns when given the right information and support. Connect with John Mekrut Website: https://thebalancedbrain.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBalancedBrain/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@balancedbraintraining (https://www.youtube.com/@balancedbraintraining) Practical Takeaways Neurofeedback is better understood as brain training rather than a treatment being done to you The brain is constantly learning and can develop both helpful and unhelpful patterns over time Neurofeedback gives the brain information about its own activity so it can gradually learn more efficient patterns Addiction can involve learned attempts to regulate stress, discomfort, anxiety, or other difficult internal states Alcohol, nicotine, sugar, gambling, shopping, and other behaviors may all become ways the brain attempts to change how it feels Supporting the brain's ability to self-regulate may be one piece of a more comprehensive recovery strategy Neuroplasticity means the brain has an extraordinary ability to adapt and develop new patterns ADHD, PTSD, trauma, and traumatic brain injury may create additional challenges for people trying to maintain recovery Nutrition matters because the brain requires adequate raw materials to function properly Amino acids provide building blocks needed for neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin Neurofeedback cannot replace adequate nutrition, restorative sleep, hydration, emotional healing, or supportive relationships Lasting change requires participation. No practitioner or technology can do all of the work for someone There is rarely one magic solution for complex mental health or addiction challenges Recovery may be stronger when electrical brain regulation, nutritional support, psychological healing, and lifestyle changes are addressed together Resources Mentioned Balanced Brain Neurofeedback Training Center – neurofeedback training and integrative brain health services in Los Angeles Othmer Institute – neurofeedback training and professional education Dr. David Kaiser – discussed in relation to QEEG acquisition and analysis Dr. Judith Miller – discussed in relation to research combining neurofeedback and amino acid therapy in addiction treatment Amino Acid Therapy – discussed as nutritional support for neurotransmitter production and recovery EAT by Christina Veselak – referenced as a foundational resource for learning how to nourish and support the brain Research discussed in the episode examining neurofeedback in substance use disorder treatment and relapse outcomes Interested in Sponsoring the Podcast? The Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast reaches an audience interested in addiction recovery, mental health nutrition, amino acid therapy, and brain-based recovery support. If your organization, program, or brand aligns with this mission, we invite you to explore podcast sponsorship opportunities. Learn more here:  https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/ Explore recovery nutrition resources, courses, and professional training from the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ Learn more about the Feeding the Recovering Brain movement: https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/ Support the nonprofit initiative Eating Protein Saves Lives, and help spread the message that protein throughout the day can support brain health, cravings, and recovery: https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ (https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/) Start with Christina Veselak's book, EAT! A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

Who has been a guest on Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Salvatore Di Liello
• Dr Shelly Jo Wahlstrom
• Val Prisecaru

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 33 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

53

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

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Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

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