Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in our brain that plays a role movement control, emotional response and the perception of pain and pleasure. Certain substances, such as drugs and nicotine, affect the dopamine systems in our brain. Scientists think that the disruption in dopamine systems plays a major role in addiction. Nora Volkow, the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, found that food can also affect the brain's dopamine systems, possibly leading to food addiction in some people, according to an article in "The Washington Post."
Addiction Versus Craving
A great deal of controversy exists over whether or not food is physically addictive. According to a 2005 interview with Bonnie Taub Dix, a representative for the American Heart Association, there seems to be an emotional response tied to eating that is similar to other addictive behaviors. Many people experience cravings for certain types of foods. Dix explains that the difference between a craving and an addiction is that people with cravings are able to deny themselves the food, whereas people with addictions must fulfill their needs for food.
Most Addictive Foods
Dix also identifies the types of foods generally considered most addictive. These foods include carbohydrates, desserts, salty foods and chocolate. The reason for the high addictive potential is that these types of foods prompt your brain to release another neurotransmitter called serotonin, which makes you feel happy. When serotonin levels drop, the happy feeling dissipates. People who are addicted to food turn to carbohydrates to regain that feeling of happiness.
Binge Eating Disorder
Addictions to food often lead to binge eating disorder, characterized by the frequent overconsumption of large amounts of food. According to the Weight Control Information Network, a publication by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, binge eating disorder is the most common type of eating disorder, affecting approximately 3 percent of adults in the United States. People with binge eating disorder often continue to eat even when they feel full and eat more quickly than others. Binge eating is often done in private, with the behavior hidden from others, characteristics that closely resemble chemical addictions. Binge eating disorder is often accompanied by depression and anxiety. MayoClinic.com notes that most people with binge eating disorder feel upset and guilty about overeating, but are unable to stop themselves.
Treatment
Dix describes a number of techniques that can help your control your addictions to food and reduce the likelihood of overeating. Consuming a combination of carbohydrates and protein at each meal can help slow the absorption of carbohydrates and control the release of serotonin, preventing the increases and decreases in mood. Keeping a food diary can also help you visualize what you are eating and may reduce likelihood of overeating. Seeking the help of a dietitian or health professional may also be beneficial to controlling addictive behaviors.
