Do you think food addiction is real?
Unfortunately the answer is yes. But bad/poor choices of lifestyle are also kind of addictive. The difference between the two is that the first one is probably genetically connected while the second is not and can be corrected with proper education and help people make better choices people make. Another issue here is that by choosing bad lifestyle habits and keep making poor choices can lead to food addiction if one is not careful or has low self-esteem, self-discipline and self-control. Food addiction can also be a result of depression and other psychological factors where medical/psychological treatment might be required in order to break the cycle and get out of that situation.
Hi, Katie.
You sent me a couple of questions that I’d like to answer.
In addition to the more obvious addictive foods, such as sugars, saturated fats, and processed flour, virtually any food can result in addiction for susceptible individuals. This can occur due to various food sensitivities (sometimes called “allergies”, a controversial term with respect to foods). The so-called “allergic” reaction results in a neurochemical cascade that may trigger an addictive response, so some people with food sensitivities end up addicted to the very foods that make them feel worst.
Regarding the elimination diet you asked about, I may use that at times for suspected food sensitivities. Other food addictions hinge on general neurochemical responses (by all) that are problematic for some due to predisposing factors, based on family history. That can often be determined via questionnaire. If more specific information is necessary (by blood test, for example), I refer to an M.D.
Thanks,
Joan