A 2011 study from Yale University's Rudd Center for Obesity Research and Policy showed that food addiction is real. In fact, certain people have the same brain reaction to food that drugs addicts have to drugs. If you find yourself eating for reasons other than hunger, you might have a food addiction, especially if you realize you can't stop eating.
Step 1
Give your kitchen a makeover. Replace junk food, sweets and high-fat snacks with healthier options, such as nuts, canned fruit and raisins. If you have a weakness for a specific type of food, such as chips, look for a healthier alternative to the same food -- for example, buy baked low-sodium chips instead of the regular kind.
Step 2
Make a list of the situations that trigger your overeating. Many people who are addicted to food eat to fill an emotional need. For example, they might eat when stressed or angry or bored. Until you understand what causes your food addiction, you won't be able to break the cycle.
Step 3
Look for a counseling or support group. Like with other addictions, therapy can help you deal with the feelings behind your food addiction and give you tools to fight it. Organizations like Food Addicts Anonymous and Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous have online forums where you can connect with others for support as well as locate a meeting in your area (see Resources).
Step 4
Write down a list of things you could do to distract you when you're tempted to eat. The list should include things that you enjoy doing at least as much as eating. For example, you could get a massage, go window shopping or meet a friend for a walk.
