Who does not love food, right? Food is something that we can not live without. And with the rapid modernization of society, it is very easy to get whatever food we want wherever. It does not matter if the food is Chinese or Italian. There are multiple restaurants opening now and then opening a lot more food options to us. But the problem starts when food starts turning into an addiction. Food addiction can be problematic to deal with. That is why knowing about its causes and symptoms is very important.
WHAT IS A FOOD ADDICTION?
We hear about common addictions like drug addiction or alcohol addiction a lot. But food
addiction is something new to hear about. Some of us love to eat junk food so much that it
can turn into an addiction.
Drugs or alcohol release dopamine or the ‘feel-good brain chemical’ in our head which gives
us a pleasurable feeling turning us into a drug addict. Similarly, junk food releases dopamine
which turns into junk food addiction. This addiction can also become very serious like drug
addiction. This causes eating certain foods frequently and eventually results in massive
weight gain and further illnesses.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE BEHIND FOOD ADDICTION?
The most common food addiction name or term we hear is binge eating. It means eating
unhealthy and junk foods frequently without having any control over the senses. We come
across a lot of people who love to binge eat. This addiction is not always simple love for
food. There are some underlying reasons behind it. The primary food addiction causes are
discussed below –
● Biological causes:
The human body is a complex system and a lot of factors work together to maintain its well-
being. But whenever some disbalance takes place inside our bodies, it starts showing signs
on the outside as well. Similarly, hormonal disbalances or disorders in the nervous system
can cause food disorders. Along with it certain medications can create some side effects
resulting in food addiction.
● Psychological causes:
Psychological factors working behind food addiction are a lesser-acknowledged factor. Most
people suffer from some psychological problems that lead them to eat lots of food. These
factors can range starting from sexual abuse to mental torture. People suffering from these
factors consider food as their friend or stress busters. They think eating food will help them
to forget their emotional baggage and help them to deal with the problem.
● Genetic causes:
Genetics can also cause addiction to food. Studies show that a family history of having
alcoholic people or food addicted people can also cause food addiction to other members.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FOOD ADDICTION?
Food addiction nowadays is becoming a pretty common disorder among men and women. But in most cases, people suffering from food disorders are unable to recognize the symptoms. It is because of the little knowledge about food disorders. But food addiction symptoms can be understood easily if we observe them keenly. The most common symptoms of this addiction are –
● Eating certain palatable foods consisting of fat, salt, and sugar frequently
● Eating a larger amount of food than normal even when someone is not feeling
hungry
● Not able to control the desire to eat food
● Searching for food whenever someone is feeling emotionally vulnerable
● Avoiding social gatherings where certain foods are available to avoid overeating
● Problem in sleeping
● Digestive disorders
● Anxiety after cutting down certain foods, etc.
HOW TO GET OVER FOOD ADDICTION?
Food addiction is hard to deal with and the consequences of this addiction are not ideal for
physical as well as mental health. But to get over this addiction is possible with professional
help and guidance.
The moment we get to understand the symptoms, we must consult with a nutritionist for
help as soon as possible. A nutritionist will prepare a strict diet chart consisting of the
important foods along with a proper amount.
A nutritionist will help the addicted patients with the proper food guide. But only a diet
chart does not help in these cases. That is why seeking the help of a psychologist is also very
important to solve the problem from the root. As we know, psychological disorders are also
a reason behind this addiction, dealing with those problems with the help of a doctor is
required.
CONCLUSION:
Nobody could have imagined that pure love for food can also create some disorders. But
food addiction can get out of control if ignored from the beginning. It can be caused due to
hormonal issues or mental issues. The symptoms are easy to understand but get unnoticed
most times. Understanding these symptoms and seeking professional help are much needed
to solve this disorder. Otherwise, which seems like a mere addiction can cause other severe
problems including heart attacks.
