1 week Ago By The Health Standard Newswire
Expert driven. Evidence-Based. Actionable Health Guidance.
From our A recent study by the University of Michigan has uncovered a startling fact: approximately 13% of adults aged 50 to 80 show signs of addiction to highly processed foods. Food addiction to highly processed foods isn't just a matter of weight gain. It represents an unhealthy relationship with eating that can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and certain cancers.
Recognizing and addressing this problem is essential for healthy aging. , associate professor in the U-M Department of Psychology, states: "The word addiction may seem strong when it comes to food, but research has shown that our brains respond as strongly to highly processed foods, especially those highest in sugar, simple starches, and fat, as they do to tobacco, alcohol, and other addictive substances." : Dr.
Adriana Davis, Family Medicine, notes: "Food addiction often co-occurs with mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Addressing these underlying conditions can be crucial in overcoming food addiction. This is the time to understand that the very chemistry of these foods made them addictive.
It's not a battle of wills." : Dr. Shelandra Bell, Family Medicine: "Regular check-ups are essential.
They can help catch early signs of health problems related to eating habits and allow for timely interventions. It's important that you keep a close eye on your A1C, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels." : Dr.
Puja Uppal, Family Medicine added this: "Intense cravings, food nose, might manifest as persistent thoughts about food that interfere with daily activities. You might find yourself unable to concentrate on work or conversations because you're preoccupied with thoughts of eating certain foods. The inability to cut down often shows up as repeated failed attempts to reduce consumption of problematic foods, despite your genuine desire to do so.
Withdrawal signs can be subtle but impactful. For example, you might experience irritability, fatigue, or even mild physical discomfort when you try to avoid highly processed foods. It's also important to note if eating causes significant distress or if it's impacting your social life, work, or health.
If you're consistently eating to the point of physical discomfort or feeling guilt and shame about your eating habits, these could be red flags for addiction. Talk to your healthcare team. There is nothing to be shy about!" Dr.
Jagdish Khubchandani, PhD, Social Epidemiologist noted: "Good healthy food is the best medicine, but the way the food industry is enticing people with unhealthy options tells us why we need more awareness and regulation. No one is immune to and food addiction; it is no surprise that poor diet is linked with leading causes of death nationally and globally." .
In fact, 22% of women aged 50-64 showed signs of food addiction. . For instance, 34% of women who self-reported as overweight met the criteria for food addiction, compared to only 4% of women who reported being at about the right weight.
When it comes to addiction to junk food in older adults, the number one problem people reported was having really strong urges to eat. Many found themselves desperately wanting these unhealthy foods, to the point where they couldn't stop thinking about them. Food addiction is a real and significant issue affecting many older adults across the nation.
It's not just about willpower—it's a complex condition influenced by brain chemistry, mental health, and environmental factors. Recognizing the signs and seeking help are crucial steps towards better health. Remember, it's never too late to develop a healthier relationship with food and improve your overall well-being.
1 in 8 Americans over 50 show signs of food addiction, U-M poll finds:.
