An international group of scientists from Spain, the USA and Brazil found that some foods are addictive. Sweets, fast food and ultra-processed foods can be more addictive than alcohol and cigarettes. In this respect reports EurekAlert.
Scientists explained why addiction occurs only to certain product categories. All the food we eat contains protein, fat and carbohydrates. The quantitative value of these nutrients depends on the type of product, method of preparation and the presence of other ingredients. For example, fruits are rich in carbohydrates but contain almost no fat. Salmon is high in fat and low in carbohydrates. Foods rich in both fat and carbohydrates are foods where addiction can develop.
These include chocolate, ice cream, baked goods and ultra-processed foods. This is food produced industrially from refined and highly purified ingredients with the addition of emulsifiers, thickeners, preservatives and flavors. Examples of such products are fast food, ready meals (frozen pizza), chips and breakfast cereals.
Scientists have noted that the combination of large amounts of fat and carbohydrates affects the human brain. People’s addiction to such foods meets the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders. Addictive behaviors include less control over consumption, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite consequences such as obesity, eating disorders, poor physical and mental health, and reduced quality of life.
Researchers say food addiction is the strongest addiction.
“People can stop smoking, drinking, or gambling, but they can’t stop eating (addictive foods),” added Alexandra DiFeliceantonio, an assistant professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute and one of the study’s authors.
Previous scientists named Dangerous products that cause cancer.