Some call it a food addiction. Others refer to it as compulsive overeating. No matter the label, researchers and doctors agree on one thing: fat, salt and sugar can alter the brain chemistry, making it more difficult to resist eating more. In his book, “The End of Overeating”, former FDA commissioner David Kessler, MD explains that there are similarities between an individual who struggles with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, and someone who struggles with an addiction to food (or overeating). The key is to find the driving force behind the behavior and learn how to change it. Factors that may contribute to overeating Feel good foods: Foods high in sugar, fat and salt release a “feel good” hormone in the brain. Essentially, this reaction associates eating unhealthy foods with pleasure. For some people, this is where the addiction to food begins: eat more of these foods, feel more pleasure. Unfortunately, as the body adapts to these foods, it becomes less satisfied, leading to eating even more in order to get the same effect. Food, comfort care: Our culture associates food with comfort and care. When a friend experiences a loss, we show up with a homemade casserole. When a new baby is born, we celebrate with the new family by offering food. Parents offer ice cream and other treats as part of a system of reward for good behavior. Eating is often tied to emotional occasions, whether we are grieving or celebrating.Many people turn to food as a […]
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