A global team of scientists from Spain, the United States and Brazil concludes that some foods can trigger addictive responses. Sweets, fast food, and ultra-processed items may have a stronger pull than alcohol or cigarettes, according to EurekAlert reports.
Researchers describe why addiction tends to form with certain product categories. All foods deliver a mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, but the exact balance varies with the item, how it is prepared, and what other ingredients are included. For instance, fruits are high in carbohydrates yet contain almost no fat, while salmon carries a high fat content with relatively few carbohydrates. The combination of high fat and carbohydrate content appears to be a key factor in the potential for addiction.
Foods in this category include chocolate, ice cream, baked goods, and ultra-processed offerings. Ultra-processed foods are industrially produced using refined and highly purified ingredients, often with emulsifiers, thickeners, preservatives, and flavor enhancers. Common examples are fast food, frozen ready meals such as pizza, chips, and breakfast cereals.
scientists note that the synergy of abundant fat and carbohydrates can influence brain activity in ways that resemble addictive processes. Individuals who consume these foods in excess may display criteria similar to those used for substance use disorders. Signs include losing control over intake, persistent urge or cravings, withdrawal-like symptoms, and continued consumption despite negative outcomes such as obesity, eating disorders, poor physical and mental health, or diminished quality of life.
Experts suggest food addiction ranks among the strongest forms of addiction observed in modern society.
Alexandra DiFeliceantonio, an assistant professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute and one of the study’s contributors, notes that people can often quit smoking, drinking, or gambling, yet may struggle to stop eating addictive foods.
Earlier research has also highlighted dangers associated with certain products that contribute to cancer risk, underscoring the broader health implications of dietary choices. (Source: EurekAlert)