Processed Food Addiction
why are some foods more addictive than others?
Have you ever found yourself sitting in front of the TV and eating some food, only to realize that you’ve eaten a lot more than the average serving size? Compulsively eating certain foods can quickly become a habit for some people and can lead to overeating and food addiction.
Is Processed Food Addiction Real?
While processed food addiction is not an official diagnosis (yet), maladaptive eating behaviors that revolve around certain foods can be linked to other conditions like binge eating disorder or obesity.
Other researchers and clinicians state that processed food is addictive because of how it can trigger the pleasure centers of the brain and the release of “feel good” chemicals like dopamine. As a result of this, many people have addictive eating behaviors to cope with anxiety and stress.
What Foods are the Most Addictive?
There are a few similarities in the foods that people tend to compulsively overeat. These similarities include processed carbohydrates (sugar, flour), salt, and oil. Many processed foods such as pizza, cake, ice cream, and burgers have a combination of all these things – something we would not come across in the natural environment.
If you think you might be going through a period of processed food addiction, look out for some signs…like continuing to eat even after you feel full, and having a compulsive or uncontrollable urge to consume foods when not hungry. These urges tend to associate with specific food components, particularly refined flours, sugar, oils, and fat
If You Recognize the Signs, Get Help
If you can recognize the signs of addictive eating patterns in yourself or a loved one, it would be best for your physical and mental health if you were to get help sooner rather than later. Therapy to understand the underlying causes of addictive eating behaviors can be a great first step to take.
Matthew A. Webster, MA, MS, ED.D, LPC
Martin Counseling, PLLC in Katy, TX.
Dr. Matt Webster is a professional educator, nutritionist, and therapist located in the Houston, Texas area. He specializes in couples therapy, sexuality, and maladaptive eating patterns with a focus on the role of nutrition. More About Matt >>
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