Food Addiction May Be a Bigger Problem Than You Think

Food addiction is a problem that is gaining more recognition. Scientists are beginning to think that food addiction may be a contributing factor behind the obesity crisis. When you eat a diet high in some processed foods, you are consuming large amounts of salt, sugar, fat and  high-glycemic refined carbohydrates. These foods can trigger changes in the brain that can lead to compulsive overeating.

You probably don’t think eating certain foods can be habit- forming.  Studies have shown that when you consume a lot of an ingredient such as sugar, your body will start to crave it (Avena, 2008) .Over time, you will find that you will need to eat more and even binge-eat to satisfy your craving. This food can cause the release of chemicals such as dopamine in the brain, which gives people the rush that drug addicts experience. If you try to stop, you may find yourself suffering from withdrawal symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

You may be more prone to food addiction if you are carrying certain genes. Overeating can also be a way to deal with stress. Lifestyle plays an important role too.  If you have a job and a family, you probably do not have a lot of time to prepare proper meals. Processed foods are quick, easy and require little preparation.

Eating too many processed foods have been linked to obesity, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, high cholesterol and other serious illnesses. There are ways to reduce cravings and compulsive overeating. You will want to replace processed foods with more healthy options. Also eliminating refined sugar and white flour is a good place to start. Add in fresh vegetables, fruits and meat.  Use portion control. Address your emotional issues that you have with food. If you can’t do this alone, get professional help or join a support group.

Food addiction is a complex problem to overcome as you have to eat food to survive.  However, if you are willing to do the emotional work and eliminate processed foods from the diet, your food addiction problem can be managed.

Avena, A; et al.(2008) Evidence for sugar addiction: Behavioral and neurochemical effects of intermittent,excessive sugar intake. Neuroscience and Behavioral Reviews (32), 20-39.