Food Addiction
What is Food Addiction?

The need for food is a basic requirement for human survival, and it adds to a person’s wellness. In addition to its natural life sustaining provisions, it is also a source of contentment and enjoyment. A man or woman is able to receive happiness and gratification through various tastes, smells, textures, etc. Unfortunately, food can be abused just like illicit drugs, and a person can eventually develop a food addiction.

There is research-based evidence that suggests foods high in sugar, salt, and/or fat can trigger the pleasure sensors (dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, etc.) in the brain creating strong feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. This response is similar to a cocaine addict, whose reward center is turned on when abusing cocaine.

When a person becomes addicted to the “high” that is felt while eating particular types of food, the man or woman suffering from the addiction will continue to eat even when they are no longer hungry. This in turn creates a nasty progression of food addiction. As the cocaine addict continues to abuse the drug in order to feel the high (intense euphoric feeling), so does the individual who continues to binge upon foods that induce pleasurable feelings.

This person will eat in excess and eat much more than what is necessary for healthy living and proper nutrition. The continued abuse of food will lead to physical, emotional and social penalties such as obesity, heart disease, depression, low-self worth and isolation.

Like the drug addict, the food addict will constantly engage in the destructive behaviors of overeating and gorging on food to induce the endorphin rush of feeling pleasure. It is imperative that a person who has developed a food addiction seek professional help.

Up to 50% of individuals with eating disorders also struggle with substance use disorders and up to 35% of individuals with substance use disorders also have eating disorders; Bulimia Nervosa being most commonly linked to substance abuse. The findings of the National Center on Substance Abuse indicate both have shared risk factors and characteristics.

The DSM IV-TR diagnostic characteristics of Substance Dependence as well as the proposed criteria for Binge Eating Disorder (now included in the DSM-V) are discussed with respect to behaviors surrounding food and eating. Research has indicated that the brain reward system processes positive responses to both food and addictive substances.

Due to the many similarities between eating and addictive disorders, the recovery and 12 step models used in substance abuse treatment can be used effectively with eating disorders.

Statistics on Food Addiction

Obtaining further information about food addiction is helpful in better understanding this condition and those who it can potentially affect.

The following are important statistics about food addiction that give greater insight about how sufferers are impacted:

Causes of Food Addiction

A food addiction is often developed due to the result of various factors that include biological, psychological, or social reasons. Biological causes can consist of hormonal imbalances, brain chemistry abnormalities, medication side effects, or an inherent disposition resulting from family members struggling with food addictions.

Some psychological factors may include emotional, physical or sexual abuse, experiencing a traumatic event, unable to effectively handle negative situations, persistent low self-worth, or dealing with grief or loss. These mental issues can lead a person to turn to food for comfort or to numb emotional pain.

Dysfunctional family problems, peer pressure, child abuse and stressful life events are a few social factors that can lead to a food addiction. Food addiction can also co-occur with other disorders such as depression, eating disorders or substance abuse.

It is recommended that professional assistance be sought to learn how successfully to manage this disorder.

Signs and Symptoms of Food Addiction

When someone has developed a food addiction, the individual will present numerous signs and symptoms that can be recognized. If you or someone you care for is experiencing any of these signs of food addiction, then find professional treatment immediately.

The following are potential indications of a food addiction:

Food Addiction Effects

The repercussions a food addiction may have on various facets of your life can be overwhelming. A food addiction, if left untreated, can quickly begin consuming and ruining your life and health.Knowing how a food addiction can change and destroy your existence may help other to seek the assistance needed to begin living a healthy lifestyle again.

If you or someone you care for is struggling with food and overeating, then ask for help. The following are some of the effects of food addiction:

Negative Physical Effects:

Unwanted Psychological Effects: