The Consequences Of Food Addiction

There are stereotypical misconceptions commonly associated with food addictions. An individual’s first thought when hearing, “they have a food addiction,” is often, “they are obese, they are lazy, and they are incapable of making lifestyle changes.” People ignore the fact that there are other contributing factors that can cause food addictions. The most addicting foods, or “the holy trinity” (Moss, as cited in Crowe, 2014), are those high in salt, fat, and sugar; generally, they are the unhealthiest and cheapest foods in the grocery store. But individuals are not trying to obtain the unhealthiest meals. The unhealthiest meals just so happen to commonly be the most cost efficient; calories are the unfortunate consequence. Poverty and low incomes …show more content…
Large portions would then lead to over eating, which would then lead to a food addiction. Berenson, Laz, Pohlmeier, Rahman and Cunningham, (2015) explained how food addiction is a potential risk, but obesity is a more likely outcome of over eating. But when money is not an object higher quality, healthier food becomes available. If a food addiction became present, individuals with money have better accessibility to councilors and help. A lifestyle change can be easily made. If the food is so cheap and tastes so delicious, how can an individual …show more content…
Different types of food addictions include Binge Eating Disorders and Bulimia Nervosa (Meule, Rezori, & Blechert, 2014). According to Meule, Rezori, and Blechert (2014), depression, along with other compromised mental statuses, were not the most abundant causes of food addiction. A poor self-image increased one’s food consumption, but studies showed a change in one’s relationship status and exercise had a larger impact on the desire for food consumption (Berenson, Laz, Pohlmeier, Rahman, & Cunningham, 2015). Food would be the individual’s hobby and way of coping with stress. Without the proper support system, food becomes the next viable option. Certain foods cause the release of dopamine, a hormone that makes an individual feel good, which is similar to the presence of a comforting person. Food replaces a friend (hence why ice cream is often consumed after a couple breaks up). The severity does not necessarily start full canter, but without proper treatment the progression to an addiction is possible. But it is not always a slow development. Binge eating disorders may also be triggered by traumatic events, a sudden change in roles, or a genetic inheritance. Without sensory specific satiety people lack the neurological connection between their stomach and mind telling them that they are full (Crowe,2014). It is not their fault. And while stereotypical food addicts are over-weight, the truth of the matter