Did you know that some processed foods might be as addictive as cigarettes? A new study from the U.S. suggests that highly processed foods (HPFs) could be considered addictive, similar to tobacco, and may contribute to preventable deaths. These foods often trigger cravings, loss of control, and compulsive overeating, according to Dr. Ashley N. Gearhardt’s research from the University of Michigan.
What makes these foods addictive? Like tobacco, HPFs quickly deliver high doses of sugar and fat, causing spikes in dopamine, the brain’s reward chemical. The more processed foods we eat, the fewer dopamine receptors we have, which increases cravings and the need for more food to feel satisfied.
The study isn’t alone in raising concerns. At the 2022 Diabetes Professional Care conference, Dr. Jen Unwin shared data showing that an online program combining a low-carb diet with education about food addiction significantly reduced symptoms of food addiction. Interestingly, some people in the study weren’t even overweight, proving food addiction isn’t just about weight but also mental health.
If processed foods play such a large role in public health issues like diabetes and heart disease, addressing food addiction through clinical programs could help reduce cravings and improve mental well-being.
So, next time you reach for that bag of chips, think about whether it’s a genuine craving or something deeper. Understanding how food affects your brain might help you make healthier choices!
Stay informed and stay healthy!
