MSI Press Blog

  What is a book jewel? A sometimes-overlooked book with remarkable insight and potential significance. Starting in August, we will share near-daily, as possible, reviews of the monthly book jewel - short, succinct reviews that can be read in 1-2 minutes with links to the reviewer by reviewers whose words are worthy of being heard and whose opinions are worthy of being considered. Sometimes a couple of minutes contains more impressive thought than ten times that many. We will let you decide that. This month's book jewel is The Optimistic Food Addict by Christina Fisanick. Amazon review by GMU Patriot - I was lonely and hungry for something deeper than what food could satiate. To say that I was moved by Christina Fisanick Greer’s memoir, “The Optimistic Food Addict” is an understatement. I found myself in every word. As a fellow food addict, I know what it is to “dance with the dragon” (confront our substances) every day. Christina vividly illustrates what she’s endured battling fo...

photo and The Conversation article by Laura Brow n I cannot stick to diets. I have tried for at 50 years to do so, but I just can't. I know from my friends that I am not alone. THIS diet, though, I CAN manage. It's not exactly a diet. It is more about modestly manage what you buy and eat, as explained clearly and briefly in this great article from The Conversation today: " Changing Your Diet Could Add Ten Years to Your Life -- New Research. " Very nifty, summative, easy-to-use chart, too. Worth the few minutes to read, especially since research says it may add TEN years to your life. Easier said than done? If you are struggling with low self-esteem from food being in control of your life, MIS Press author, Dr. Christine Fisanick, has a very sane and helpful approach to it all. She shares remarkable personal details in her book, The Optimistic Food Addict . Description from Amazon and other sellers:  The Optimistic Food Addict explores the author's journey through...

  For many, binge eating is not about food at all — it’s about safety. Trauma‑informed therapy helps heal the emotional and physiological roots of the disorder. When it’s used: When binge eating is linked to trauma, dissociation, or chronic emotional suppression, trauma‑informed or somatic therapy is essential. How it works: Therapy focuses on building safety in the body, integrating trauma memories, and teaching self‑regulation. Techniques may include grounding, breathwork, EMDR, or somatic experiencing — all designed to help the body feel safe enough to release the need for food as protection. Expected results: Recovery unfolds gradually. As emotional safety grows, binges lose their purpose. The person begins to feel present, embodied, and capable of soothing themselves without food. image and some content AI-generated This post was inspired by the book, The Optimistic Food Addict: Recovering from Binge Eating Disorder by Dr. Christine Fisanick. Book Description The Opt...

  Recovery begins with nourishment. Nutritional rehabilitation helps the body relearn hunger, fullness, and trust. When it’s used: When eating feels chaotic, restricted, or fear‑based, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders can help rebuild structure and safety. How it works: The process starts with consistent meals and snacks — not calorie counting, but rhythm. The dietitian helps remove moral labels from food (“good” vs. “bad”) and teaches how adequate eating prevents binges by stabilizing blood sugar and calming the nervous system. Expected results: As the body feels fed and safe, binge urges decrease. Hunger cues return, energy stabilizes, and food becomes nourishment rather than negotiation. image and some content AI-generated This post was inspired by the book, The Optimistic Food Addict: Recovering from Binge Eating Disorder by Dr. Christine Fisanick. Book Description The Optimistic Food Addict explores the author's courageous journey through a li...

  Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT‑E) is the gold‑standard treatment for binge eating disorder. It helps people understand how restriction, guilt, and distorted beliefs about food and body image keep the binge cycle alive. When it’s used: CBT‑E is often the first‑line approach when binge eating is tied to irregular eating patterns, chronic dieting, or harsh self‑judgment. How it works: Therapy begins by restoring regular eating — three meals and two to three snacks daily — to stabilize hunger and reduce physiological triggers. Then, it helps identify and challenge the thoughts that lead to binges: “I’ve already blown it,” “I’ll start over tomorrow,” or “I can’t control myself.” Expected results: Within 12–20 weeks, most people experience fewer binges, less guilt, and a more balanced relationship with food. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s consistency and self‑trust. image and some content AI-generated This post was inspired by the book, The Optimistic Food Addict...