Are You a Food Addict?

Food Addiction
One of the simplest ways to think of food addiction is by recognizing that it involves an unhealthy relationship, or "dis-ease," with food. Those who suffer from it are unable to stop or control this unhealthy relationship, despite the negative and/or life-threatening consequences to their overall health and well-being. Food addicts are plagued by a preoccupation with food, including its preparation. They are at war with themselves, battling their desire to cut back their food intake, yet constantly failing. The guilt, shame, remorse and self-loathing they feel over this failure binds them in an unrelenting state of emotional turmoil that only triggers them to eat more.
Relationship With Food
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 10 to 15 percent of Americans have an unhealthy relationship with food. If you think you may have an unhealthy relationship with food, here are some questions to ask yourself:
Have you tried but failed to control your eating?
Has anyone ever expressed concern to you about your eating?
Are thoughts of food and eating always on your mind?
Do you often eat more than you planned?
Do you eat extremely fast so you can eat more?
Do you hide food or eat in secret?
Do you find it difficult to stop eating once you start?
Do you eat foods you know are bad for you?
Do you eat to relieve painful emotions?
Do you feel anxious or nervous when eating?
Do you feel guilt, shame or embarrassment about your eating?
Do you overeat to the point of feeling sick on a regular basis?
Do you use laxatives, diuretics or purge to get rid of excess?
Are you afraid of gaining weight?
Do you have health problems because of your weight?
Do you think you'll be happy if you achieve a certain weight?
Do you weigh yourself more than once a day?
Do you exercise excessively to compensate for overeating?
Do you see food as something to be avoided or harmful?
Do you go on a binge after dieting or trying to cut back?
Do you feel hopeless about your behavior with food or your obsession with your body weight?
If you think you might be a food addict, then the chances are pretty good that you are. However, many people who suffer from food addiction are in denial about their problem.
If You Are a Food Addict
The good news is there is hope and help. Admitting you need help is the hardest part. But once you've made that admission, you're well on your way to recovery. There are several options available for treatment, including participation in 12-Step groups such as Overeaters Anonymous (oa.org) and Eating Disorders Anonymous (eatingdisordersanonymous.org). You can also consult with a psychologist, registered dietitian, physician or other healthcare professional that specializes in the treatment of food addiction.