Did you ever think that your bag of chips or Twinkies you religiously get may also be an addiction?

While we may all agree that junk food all the time isn’t good for us, maybe we should also entertain the idea that it is can be an addiction as well.

Why is Junk Food Addictive?

When we eat foods high in sugar and fat, our brains tell us to eat more in order to satisfy the craving- yes this is behavior similar to an addiction!  Junk food may not be as extreme or addictive as heroin, but it is enough to be concerned.  Overeating junk food can lead to obesity and can cause other health-related problems such as headache, indigestion, cavities, and heart disease, just to name a few.  Our children are eating more junk food and exercising less, adding to the severity of this issue.

Signs You’re Addicted to Junk Food

• You repeatedly overindulge

• You eat junk food for emotional or psychological reasons- you’re stressed, you’re depressed, you use it as a reward

Ways to Help Yourself

• Eat in moderation

• Buy healthy food instead

• Think of how much money you are saving if you don’t buy junk food

• Change the way you feel about yourself

• Healthy Substitutes such as fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts

• Education- USDA http://www.fns.usda.gov/fns/nutrition.htm
  
• ADA http://www.eatright.org/

So before you sign yourself up for a chocoholic meeting, take a honest look to see if you are self-medicating or if you really do have an addiction.  Find self-worth through other optimal wellness options, such as exercise, hobbies, or club activities.

Do you think you are addicted to junk food?

Let me know what you think, I would love to hear from you.