Food addiction: causes, symptoms, and treatment & bull; hello healthy

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Definition

What is food addiction?

Although it is considered not as serious as addiction to drugs, in fact food addiction is also one of the health conditions that may occur. Addiction occurs when a person loses control over what he is doing. This urge usually arises from a strong desire or indulgence in one thing and occurs for a long time. People with certain addictions have no control over what they do, use, or consume.

Addiction conditions, such as food addiction, which occurs in a person can cause adverse health effects, especially psychological health. Even though it sounds trivial, this condition can cause changes in behavior, habits, and even brain function.

The real cause of addiction is the feeling of pleasure in the brain which is regulated by the hormone dopamine or pleasure hormone. This hormone will increase when you feel satisfied, happy, and happy about something. If the dopamine levels produced by the compassionate brain are at normal levels, addiction will not occur. But if you have an addiction, the object to which you are addicted will stimulate the brain to overproduce dopamine.

Food addiction is usually triggered by consumption of presumed foods highly palatable or very tasty, for example foods high in sugar, fat, and / or salt. It is the same with addictive drugs (which are addictive), foods that are highly palatable triggers the release of dopamine. Once your brain is flooded with dopamine, it will quickly make you feel like eating again.

How common is food addiction?

Currently, the number of people experiencing food addiction is increasing every year. However, this condition can be treated by reducing the risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Characteristics and Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of food addiction?

Food addiction is not always easy to detect. The reason is, we still need to eat. Additionally, food addicts can have symptoms that mimic other conditions, such as depression, binge eating, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). They will cover up the problem by eating secretly, even hiding food. Some of the signs and symptoms of food addiction can include:

• A persistent obsession with what to eat, when to eat, how much to eat, and how to get more food
• Overeating at mealtimes
• Snack regularly
• Eat at unusual times, such as midnight
• The habit of hiding food from friends or family, or eating in secret
• Eat as much as you can and then vomit, exercise, use laxative pills to "cancel out" the effects of overeating
• Eat even though you are full
• Eat to accompany casual activities, such as watching TV or the phone
• Associating food with punishment or reward
• Feeling embarrassed after eating a lot or eating certain foods
• Often fails to try to control eating or reduce episodes binge eating

Compared to other types of addiction, addiction to food may be less serious. However, this condition tends to increase gradually. This condition can also lead to lifelong obesity or other health problems, as well as worsening mental health.

When should I see a doctor?

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent this condition from getting worse so that it can prevent a person from other adverse health effects. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible to prevent this serious condition.

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes food addiction?

This type of addiction can be said to be quite complicated. Food, like alcohol or drugs, can trigger the brain to produce dopamine. Dopamine is what produces a good connection between food and emotional well-being.

The addicted brain will perceive food as medicine. For food addicts, food produces a sense of pleasure, even when the body doesn't need calories. A 2010 study showed that when mice were given free access to a diet low in fat and sugar, their brains changed.

Behavioral and psychological changes are quite similar to those caused by substance abuse. Researchers say there is no link between drug and food addiction, but the way it works on the body is similar. The possibility of eating a lot of unhealthy foods can also increase the likelihood of addiction to eating.

Triggers

What puts me at risk for food addiction?

There are many factors that trigger a person to become addicted to food, some of which are:

• Depression and stress
• Alcohol addiction
• Lack of physical activity

Diagnosis and Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is food addiction diagnosed?

If your doctor suspects you may have this condition, he or she may ask questions about your eating habits. Based on the signs and symptoms you have, your doctor will determine whether you have this disease or not.

How is food addiction handled?

Until now, many researchers are still studying several treatments for food addiction. Some say that a person's recovery from this condition can be more complex than other types of addiction. Alcoholics, for example, can abstain from alcohol completely. However, food addicts still need to eat. A nutritionist, psychologist, or doctor who understands food addiction can help you break the cycle of compulsive overeating.

Abroad there are several communities that can help people with food addictions, such as Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, which has a 12-step program that has successfully helped many people who are addicted to alcohol, drugs or gambling. The community uses a 12-step program principle with a strict diet that advises participants to avoid problematic ingredients, such as sugar, refined flour and wheat. You may be able to find a community that has similar problems to yours.

Prevention

What are some things you can do independently to prevent or overcome food addiction?

Food addicts must understand how to practice eating habits according to the body's natural desires. People who have food addictions should also learn how to eat when they are hungry, not in response to need or emotional stress. Food addicts cannot just eliminate food, because food is a basic need. That's why food addicts must build a healthy relationship with food over time.

Starting a variety of activities that encourage a healthy lifestyle, such as a gym, nutrition class, or stress reduction techniques are often very helpful for a food addict to cope with this condition.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.