Colloquially, we speak about food being addictive, but people are being hyperbolic. While we know that caffeine in coffee and chocolate is addictive, would you have suspected pizza can also be addicting? New scientific research suggests there may be some truth to this. Researchers at the University of Michigan have delved into this topic and come up with an authoritative list of the most addictive food out there. The Addictive Foods Study |
A team lead by Erica Schulte and doctors, Ashley Gearhardt, and Nicole Avena, looked into this matter by conducting a two-part study. They asked 504 participants what foods out of a list of 35 items, caused the most problems psychologically. The first part of the study asked 120 students about their eating habits, using the Yale Food Addiction Scale. This in-depth questionnaire regarding food habits helped the researchers identify the problematic foods. |
After that they asked an additional 398 participants from the general population, similar questions, via paid surveys. The researchers then came up with a 7 point scale and aggregated the outcome, resulting in a list of the most and least addictive foods. |
What this means Both studies came to similarly fascinating conclusions. The research team found that the top scoring foods were foods such as pizza, chocolate, and french fries. While these foods aren’t much of a surprise, the reasons are shocking and unexpected. These foods tended to lead to physical discomfort, mental distress and addictive like behavior. This distinctive trend pointed to processed foods, high in added sugars, fats and composed of refined carbohydrates. |
The high scoring foods on the list usually lead to high glycemic levels, meaning people’s blood sugar levels are likely to rise as a result of eating such foods. Other research has suggested that behaviors and brain wiring are affected by this sort of food consumption, but these studies were conducted on animals. There is still much work needed to be done before it can be proven in human behavior. The researchers hope their study is the first step towards developing a diagnosis of addictive foods, to be used in the medical community. |
At present the DSM-5, the psychological diagnostic guidebook (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) only lists binge eating as a disorder. The hope is that the literature on addictive food continues to grow, and that food addiction can have preventative methods, like any other addiction, such as smoking. While I’m not suggesting you ditch all your favorite snack foods, it is good to be aware of what foods could be problematic. Having this list not only lets us know what foods to be careful with, but it also helps us be aware of why people around us might be acting out. |
These Couples Prove It's Easier to Lose Weight Together
Losing weight can be a challenge. But these couples prove that together, it's easy to lose weight.
He Was Homeless, Addicted to Drugs, then a Cat Came Along
The unbelievable story of love between ex-addict James Bowen and the cat that adopted him, Bob
GUIDE: How Alcohol Affects Us, Drink by Drink...
In this article, we're going to discuss the exact amounts of alcohol in our blood and what they look like, including how each level affects us and our ability to function.
Why is Everyone Obsessed with This Weight-Loss Tool?
Ozempic has been touted as a wonder drug for weight loss in recent months. But what's the real truth behind it?
It’s Time to Rethink Your Weekly Schedule, Here’s Why
What sleep deprivation does to the body, and why people sleep less than recommended
14 of the World’s Most Unusual Addictions
People get addicted to the strangest things. From bee stings, to bleach baths, and eating dirt, here are the world's most bizarre addictions
The MOST Important Exercise to Practice For Seniors
This video will walk you through one simple exercise recommended daily for older adults.
What Causes Constipation? Find Out Here...
What's behind constipation? This informative TED-Ed video sheds some light on the matter!
This Doctor Tried the Keto Diet and This is What He Thinks
Curious to try the KETO Diet? Listen to what a doctor has to say first.
Feeling Bloated? This Is How to Improve Digestion Quickly
How can you improve your digestion quickly? This guide explains.
Reduce Intestinal Inflammation with This Amazing Drink
Watch this video to know about a potent juice that can help reduce intestinal inflammation.
9 Things Your Fingernails Can Tell You About Your Health
This video delves into nine revealing aspects of your fingernails that could signal important information about your health.
Memory Not Working? The Answer May Be Hiding in Your Sleep
If you want to remember better, this lecture will tell you - The answer is in your sleep.
Having Leg Cramps at Night? Then You Need to Know This
Night leg cramps beyond annoying: they can interfere with sleep and life quality. Here's everything you need to know about night leg cramps.
Simple Tips for Giving Your Brain a Well-Deserved Rest
In this video, you'll find valuable tips for giving your brain the respite it needs from the never-ending stress of daily life.
Try This Natural Drink to Detoxify and Cleanse Your Liver
This natural, easy-to-make drink can do wonders to your liver!
Natural Methods to Improve Hearing That Actually Work
Now you can improve your hearing at home with these natural methods.
How to Fix Your Sleep Schedule – Science-Backed Facts
Find out how your circadian system functions as an internal clock to keep your body running.
6 Common Mistakes We All Make When Showering
Which of these 'mistakes' are you guilty of making?
Who's Most At Risk of Colon Cancer? Find Out Here!
Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer and deaths in the world. So who’s most at risk? How can it be screened? Find out here!
10 Simple Habit Changes Will Help You Quickly Lose Weight
Ten easy to follow habit changes that will help you take down those pounds much sooner.
7 Things Stress Does to Everybody, Without Exception
Stress is one of the biggest problems we have to deal with in modern life. Here are 7 recent conclusions about stress you should know about.
The Common Cold: Humanity’s Age-Old Nemesis
The common cold has been with humanity since its early history. So why haven’t we found a cure for it yet?
Your Kidneys Are So Vital - This is What You Need to Know
Have you ever wanted to know just what it is that your kidneys actually do? Here is the information you've been waiting for.
3 One Minute Tricks to Fix Your Nightmare Back Pains
Do you have back pain as a result of prolonged sitting? Here are 3 easy techniques you can try anywhere.
The Secrets to Getting More Oxygen in Your Cells
The best (and easiest) exercises for better breathing.
If You Want to Live Longer... Bend Over More Often!
Add more years to your life by doing this one, simple exercise every day.
Every Senior Must Do These Simple Seated Exercises
Seniors will find this video extremely helpful.
Is Your Keyboard Hurting Your Wrists? Here’s How to Fix It
Did you know that your keyboard can damage your wrists? This video shows how to use it safely and 3 exercises that to counteract the damage
The Perfect Seated Core Workout for Seniors and Beginners
In this video, two physical therapy experts will guide you through a short seated core strengthening workout suitable for seniors and beginners.
Sciatica Back and Leg Pain - 5 Pain Relieving Exercises
Flareups are common for sciatica, but they can be managed and reduced with the help of specific exercises and stretches.
Here's a Quick Guide to Instantly Clearing a Blocked Nose
Got a congested nose? Remember these priceless tricks and thank us later!
Can Exercise Really Stop Heart Attacks?
Find out some of the best ways to prevent and reduce a risk of having a heart attack.
Owning a Cat Can Do Wonders For Your Health!
Pet ownership, especially cat ownership, can improve the quality of a person's life. Here are 10 health benefits of owning a cat.
These Weigh Loss Myths are Common But Simply Not True
A video where dietitians debunk 18 common misconceptions on weight loss.
ARFID: An Undiagnosed Eating Disorder?
In the ever-evolving realm of psychological disorders, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) has emerged as a puzzling newcomer in recent years.
Does Our Stomach SHRINK When We Eat Less? Our Answer
Eat less, and your stomach will shrink over time.. is that the truth?
The Truth About the Medical Secrets of Amazon Tribes...
Mark Plotkin spent years among the tribes of the Amazon and he has some fascinating secrets to share.
I Never Knew That Cassia Cinnamon Is Poisonous!
Not all cinnamon is good for you. Shockingly, most of the cheap cinnamon, cassia, can cause liver damage. Here's how to avoid it.
10 Great Uses For Your Leftover Stale Bread
Sometimes bread gets stale, but next time don't throw it away - you can still put it to good use!
The Symptoms of a Fatty Liver and How to Treat it!
Fatty deposits on your liver can seriously hinder its function. In this video, Dr. Berg explains the symptoms of a fatty liver and how to treat it.
Is This New Drug a Revolution in Slowing Down Alzheimer's?
n the ongoing battle against Alzheimer's disease, a new development presents a beacon of hope.
9 Effective Treatments for Stiff and Sore Muscles
Have you ever woken up in the morning and stretched only to feel neck or shoulder pain? here's how you treat and prevent it.
6 Important Warnings About Using Essential Oils
You are invited to find out which factors affect the safety of essential oils and six side effects you should watch out for.
Ever Heard of Sorghum? Hint: it's Something You Eat
In this article, we will learn about sorghum, an ancient wild grain compatible with gluten-free and diabetic diets.
Warning: The Places Bacteria Hides...
The truth about hand washing and the spread of bacteria. This could keep you healthy longer!
Melt Away Neck Pain and Tension Headaches With These Tips!
Tension at the base of the neck is a common cause of tension headaches, neck pain, and many other issues. Let these 3 exercises help you in just a few minutes!