Food Addiction

Assist. Prof. Dr. Erman Şentürk
Department of Psychiatry, Üsküdar University NP Feneryolu Medical Center, İstanbul, Türkiye

ABSTRACT

Food addiction has gained considerable attention with the increasing prevalence of obesity and the con- sumption of highly processed foods. Characterized by behaviors such as loss of control over eating, cravings, and continued consumption despite negative consequences, food addiction is not yet officially recognized in psychiatric diagnostic systems. However, it shares neurobiological mechanisms similar to substance use disor- ders in the brain’s reward pathways. Highly processed foods, rich in sugar, fat, and salt, are primary contribu- tors to food addiction, activating brain circuits that regulate reward, motivation, and pleasure. Neuroimaging studies have demonstrated that highly processed foods cause changes similar to those seen with addictive substances. Despite its growing recognition, therapeutic approaches for food addiction remain limited, with cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacological interventions being among the most effective methods. Further research is needed to establish clearer diagnostic criteria and develop targeted interventions. Given its association with obesity, binge eating disorder, and other psychiatric disorders, food addiction is increas- ingly recognized as a critical public health issue.

Keywords: Food addiction; Binge-eating disorder; Bulimia; Feeding and eating disorders; Addiction medicine; Feeding behavior; Food-processing industry

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