I've named a syndrome, to add to the list of other syndromes we all may or may not have variations of. I could just name it The Melissa Syndrome, since I'm my first "patient" I've treated for the condition...

TPS is a condition becoming more prevalent in the US, some experts attribute this to the SAD (Standard American Diet) and the addictive components so common in a SAD.

A person suffering from TPS will only desire to eat processed, chemical-laden food, as well as food which illicit an immune reaction due to containing proteins that are incompatible with the individual. Often, the negative reaction to these foods is what is desired, as it can deaden the senses, feelings, and thoughts, much like a drug. Most people with TPS will not desire or seek help for this addictive condition.

There are two methods of treatment for TPS.

1. Cold-Turkey. Eliminate all processed foods and reactive foods (avoids) overnight. This requires a clean slate, and a cleaned out refrigerator and pantry. It sometimes requires fasting to re-adjust the appetite. Eliminating outside food messages is imperative. No television or advertisements of any sort should be allowed in proximity to the patient. Withdrawal can be treated with healthy, whole, beneficial foods and with exercise. Often it is best to avoid substituting neutral/compliant foods for old favorites, as the palate is not yet ready to accept substitutions.

2. Gradual. Eliminate most troublesome reactive foods (avoids) first, one at a time, over a set period of time. As with method one, advertisements and outside food messages must be avoided during the entire treatment period. Once again, withdrawal can be treated with healthy, whole, beneficial foods, and with exercise.

Relapse is always a possibility. One avoid can easily lead to another, and more than a few days of this can lead to relapse of TPS. Subsequent treatments are usually not as difficult as the initial treatment, but often requires more attention to the emotional aspects involved.

After successful treatment, individuals can make a full recovery. The palate returns to its natural state and regains its preference for the foods that are best suited for the individual.

For all who are embarking on this treatment for the first time, and those who are recovering from holiday or life-event-related relapses...I know what you're going through! There is a whole community of others who have recovered, and who are on the road to recovery. Feel free to join us at the BTD Forum!