Food Addiction

Definition

Food addiction is a condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to consume certain types of food, even when not hungry, often leading to negative impacts on health.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Food addiction refers to a behavioral disorder involving compulsive and excessive consumption of palatable or 'hyperpalatable' foods, such as those high in sugar, fat, and salt. It shares similarities with substance use disorders, where imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly in the reward system, lead to psychological and physiological dependency.

Benefits

• Understanding food addiction can help in designing effective interventions for better eating habits.
• Addressing food addiction can lead to improved overall health and well-being.

Examples

• Craving and consuming large quantities of junk food like chips, sweets, and fast food even when not hungry.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and anxiety when not consuming certain foods.

Additional Information

• Known issues: Food addiction can lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and psychological issues like depression and anxiety.

Related Terms

• Binge Eating Disorder
• Obesity
• Emotional Eating
• Sugar Addiction

References

• Neuroscience of Food Addiction: Implications for Obesity and Eating Disorders
• Food Addiction and Its Validity as a Distinct Diagnosis: A Critically Appraised Topic