Personal Health Information - Mens Health - Womens Health

What does it mean to be a food addict? Recognizing this problem is not always simple. It is often very hard to recognize this addiction. Many things can cloud the reality of the situation. Being depressed or caught up in an emotional downward spiral can make recognizing problems like this very difficult.

Often it can take a considerable period of time to notice that a person has an eating problem. Generally it is first noticed in the waistline. Once this symptom occurs it does not take a genius to recognize that there is a problem with food.

Are specific foods more addictive than others? That is extremely hard to answer. All foods can be addictive. It is like asking whether what is worse for an alcoholic, beer or whiskey. This is tempered by the fact that some foods can be more addictive than others.

Sugar: This is an addictive substance. Often it is thought of as not being particularly addictive but it is. The bursts of energy produced by sugar are very addictive. Sugar addicts often feel tired and cranky if they are not getting their daily consumption of sugar laden foods. They start to feel tired and worn out as if going through withdrawal. Heroin addicts, that are in withdrawal often consume huge quantities of sugar to offset the effects of heroin withdrawal.

Sugar is very hard to avoid. Try to avoid certain foods that contain a lot of sugar. Particularly avoid candy and sweets. Also be sure to avoid sodas that contain huge amounts of sugar.

Caffeine: Starbucks beware. Everyone knows that caffeine is addictive. Just stopping drinking five cups of coffee a day and it does not take much to realize that you are addicted to caffeine. The headaches alone will tell you that you are addicted.

It is often debated if coffee is really harmful. In reasonable quantities it should not be very harmful. Excessive amounts of coffee can certainly be bad for you. Be careful to limit the quantity of coffee you consume and don't over do it.

Carbohydrates: Many people think that carbohydrates can also be addictive. This may be true for the same reason that sugar is addictive. Unless you are a marathon runner or compete regularly in Iron Man competitions you should temper the consumption of carbohydrates. Try to avoid eating excessive quantities of bread and pasta.

Carbohydrates will not turn you into a junkie but your body can become overly dependent upon them. Many people are addicted to carbohydrates and don't even realize it.

In general, food addiction is not something that people will dwell upon. It just isn't something that you consider when addictions are discussed. Yet, you may be a food addict and like most addicts you will not even realize it. Awareness of the potential problem will allow you to control it.

Yet, like all addictions, those with the worst addiction often are the least aware of their problem. Mankind is an addictive breed. Sometimes it seems that everyone is addicted to something. If it isn't food it is power or something else. Like all addictions if you feel powerless to help yourself, seek assistance be it from a friend or a doctor. You should only be ashamed of yourself if you do nothing about your problem.

If you see a doctor about your problem he may recommend that you see a therapist. Perhaps they can help through treatment or recommend a support group to help you. If all else fails, perhaps you can find help online. If you persevere and recognize that you have a problem you can overcome it.

Have you looked into the Whole Food Project?