Food Addiction | Signs, Effects and Treatment

The causes of food addiction are complex, but a combination of biological and psychological factors can be involved. It is believed that people with food addiction may have an altered reward system in the brain which means they experience pleasure from eating certain foods, especially those which are high in sugar and fat. This can lead to pleasure-seeking behaviour in an attempt to replicate the feeling of reward, creating a cycle of addiction.

Other factors such as stress, a history of trauma and underlying mental health conditions can also play a role in overeating as people use comfort eating as a way to escape their problems or cope with negative emotions. However, while the dopamine hit that results from eating can provide short-term relief, it is only a temporary solution and often makes the symptoms of these underlying issues worse.

Recognising the signs and symptoms of food addiction early on is vital as the earlier you begin treatment, the better the likely outcome will be. This is not always straightforward, however, as, like all forms of addiction, food addiction can be very deceptive and convince you and your loved ones that nothing is wrong.

To help determine if you have a food addiction, ask yourself the following questions which can point to common telltale signs:

• Do I eat large amounts of food even when I’m not hungry?
• Am I preoccupied with thoughts about food?
• Do I experience cravings for certain types of food (e.g. sugary, fatty or processed foods)?
• Do I often feel guilty or ashamed about my eating habits?
• Have I lost control over my urge to eat?
• Do I use food as a way to cope with stress, anxiety or depression?
• Do I lie to my family or friends about the amount of food I eat?
• Do I eat in secret or hide food around the house?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, it could be a sign that you need help for food addiction.

Due to its complex nature, overeating requires a multifaceted approach to recovery. This is best done at an inpatient food addiction rehab centre where you can receive round-the-clock care and support from experienced addiction and nutrition professionals.

Our sister centre, Banbury Lodge, is one of the UK’s leading food addiction rehab centres, offering residential treatment programmes that help address the physical, psychological and nutritional aspects of overeating. It is also the only food addiction rehab centre in the UK to provide treatment for under eighteens.

Relapse is an ever-present risk for anyone who suffers from food addiction because food is necessary to live so temptations are always there. While one tiny relapse does not mean failure, if you are aware of the triggers for your food cravings and have effective strategies in place to manage them, it can be easier to get back on track after a minor slip up.

Here are some useful tips that can help you prevent relapse and achieve long-term recovery from overeating:

• Monitor food triggers: Keep a diary of foods that trigger cravings, avoiding them whenever possible.
• Find healthier coping strategies: Identify and practice healthier ways to cope with stress and negative emotions rather than using food as a way of numbing out.
• Learn self-care practices: Practice activities such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness which can help reduce cravings and improve your overall well-being.
• Talk to someone: It’s important to have a support network of people you can talk to about your feelings, worries and successes. Joining our Alumni Network and staying in touch with the other people you meet at food rehab can be a great way to feel connected and supported.
• Stay active: Exercise can help boost endorphins and release stress, which can reduce cravings.