Is Food Addiction Real? Unpacking Our Relationship with Ultra-Processed Foods

Food addiction isn't a formally recognized diagnosis, yet many of us feel an addictive pull towards certain foods. We diagnose other addictions by asking questions, and it’s worthwhile to ask ourselves similar questions about our relationship with food. I present these questions without judgment, simply to encourage self-reflection:

• Are there any foods that cause you physical, social, or psychological problems, but you keep eating them anyway?
• Have you ever tried and failed to stop eating these foods?
• Do you feel out of control when eating these foods?
• Do you experience cravings for these foods?
• Do you feel guilt after consuming these foods?

Answering "yes" to these questions might suggest an addictive relationship with certain foods. However, food addiction is complicated by the fact that food doesn’t contain molecules typically considered addictive. While some argue sugar is addictive, most of us don’t eat spoonfuls of plain sugar. Furthermore, we can’t abstain from food entirely, making the concept of food addiction problematic.

In 2009, Brazilian scientists led by Carlos Monteiro tackled this issue by defining "ultra-processed food." These are industrially processed products with ingredients not typically found in home kitchens. Think of a sandwich containing mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono and diglycerides, xanthan gum, and smoked water. Ultra-processed foods now make up over 60% of the calories we consume, correlating with a rise in diet-related diseases and obesity.

The evidence is clear: diets high in ultra-processed foods contribute to numerous health issues, including anxiety, depression, dementia, various cancers, liver disease, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and weight gain. This leads us to ask if ultra-processed food is addictive. Recent research indicates that approximately 14% of adults and 12% of children exhibit signs of addiction to ultra-processed foods, according to the Yale Food Addiction Scale.

This is based on a 2023 analysis of 281 studies from 36 different countries, published in The BMJ. This prevalence is similar to the levels of addiction seen for other legal substances like alcohol (14%) and tobacco (18%) in adults. However, the level of addiction observed in children (12%) is considered unprecedented for any other substance.

Risk factors for this addiction mirror those for substances like cocaine and alcohol—stress, poverty, and trauma. Brain scans reveal similar patterns of activity for food and drug addiction.

The design of ultra-processed foods encourages rapid consumption. They’re energy-dense, often full of sugar, salt, and fat, and low in water, making them easy to eat quickly. Speed of consumption enhances the addictive potential, similar to how cigarettes are more addictive than nicotine gum.

The additives in these foods, many of which are unregulated and used to reduce costs, also play a role. They can alter our gut microbiome, promoting overeating and inflammation. Essentially, we are part of a large-scale, unconsented experiment where the risks are ours and the benefits are reaped by a few corporations.

Historically, the tobacco industry played a significant role in shaping the food industry. Companies like Reynolds and Philip Morris used their expertise in selling addictive cigarettes to market addictive foods. The parallels between the industries highlight the need for similar regulatory approaches, including financial transparency and warning labels.

While systemic changes are necessary, individuals can take steps to improve their relationship with food. A shift in perception—viewing ultra-processed foods as industrial substances rather than nourishment—can help break the cycle of addiction. Engage with these foods consciously, read ingredient lists, and ask yourself if what you’re eating is truly food or a product designed to profit at the expense of your health.

We Can Help You Beat the Addiction

If you're struggling with your relationship with food, remember: it’s not your fault. The food is designed to be addictive. If you're seeking support in making healthier choices and improving your overall wellness, consider joining one of our programs at Brooktree Consulting. We offer comprehensive lifestyle management courses and personalized consultations to help you achieve your health goals.

Take the first step towards a healthier relationship with food and schedule a consultation with us today. Visit the Academy or Coaching section of the website to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your wellness journey.