I bring a multifaceted lens to mental health and behaviour change, especially when it comes to habits that feel hard to break, like binge eating. Glenn Livingston’s Never Binge Again™ is a rare gem in this space. It combines clinical insight with practical, compassionate tools for those struggling to regain control over their eating.
Personal Reflection:
I used to binge eat myself. Deep down, bingeing felt like a brief escape, freedom and fun wrapped up in a moment of “giving up” control. Food rules and lists of “don’ts” felt like barriers that sucked the joy out of eating and living. But this book helped me reframe the internal dialogue that fuels bingeing. I began to hear that voice not as a source of freedom but as a controlling saboteur, a nagging “Pig” in my mind, trying to trick me into relapse. Realising this was empowering, like choosing not to spend time with toxic people, I decided not to listen to that voice.
Why This Book Stands Out:
Unlike many diet books, Never Binge Again™ is not about restrictive rules or shame. It’s about understanding the psychological dynamics behind binge eating, particularly the compulsive “Pig” self versus the healthy “You.” The book employs humour, particularly in the personification of the “Pig,” to make a challenging subject approachable and even enjoyable. Its interactive style pulls you in and keeps you engaged, which is critical for sustained change.
Practical and Empowering:
Raising a child with ADHD, I appreciate clear, straightforward strategies that respect individual differences. This book offers exactly that: a flexible framework where you create your own “food plan” tailored to your life, rather than a one-size-fits-all diet. The techniques encourage mindful awareness and cognitive reframing skills that align well with evidence-based therapies, including ABA principles, without feeling clinical or punitive.
Lasting Impact:
I’m now weeks into applying the principles, and the relief is profound. Cravings are fewer and easier to manage, and I feel calmer, not just around food, but overall. The book’s approach doesn’t just reduce binge urges; it restores energy, reduces guilt, and improves mood. For parents and professionals alike, this is a vital reminder that changing habits is as much about kindness and insight as it is about discipline.
For Whom Is This Book?
If you’re struggling with binge eating or know someone who is, I wholeheartedly recommend Never Binge Again™. It’s motivational, relatable, and practical. The book doesn’t promise quick fixes but offers a real system for sustainable change, one that empowers you to listen to your true self, not the “Pig.” For those who have tried diets before and failed, this may be just the fresh start you need.
Final Thought:
I respect Dr. Livingston’s courage in sharing his personal journey and translating psychology into a user-friendly guide. It’s one of the few books I’ve encountered that combines science, self-compassion, and humour with actionable advice. This book saved me from feeling powerless and helped me regain control over my life. It can save others, too.