Food for thought!

Parents do not tend to worry too much when their kids eat too much. In fact some parents appreciate the fact that their kids are eating well. However they start to worry when their kids develop health disorders and become obese. By then the damage is done and it could be too late. Food addiction is a problem, and it is very common amongst the youth in our country. It is the pathological disorder and is characterized by a compulsive need and craving to eat food that could indeed bring harm to one’s body.

Food Addiction is not very different from substance abuse. When one is addicted to foods that could do them harm, it can have the same effect on people mentally and physically. Parents need to take a stand at this point and ensure that their kids are taught right from wrong. The generation today is obsessed with Instant foods, fast food, junk food and colas. Green vegetables, soups and fruits are often something then will turn to when there is nothing else to eat.

Causes

- Loss of control. Most people who suffer from food addiction, very well understand that the food they are consuming indiscriminately is causing their body harm. It somehow does not make a difference to them and they continue to indulge in the abuse.

- Food allergies can often be the cause of food addiction as well. Certain foods are known to be triggers that set off cravings and some individuals who suffer from food addition may have them.

- Comfort food: Often people who suffer from loneliness, depression and low self esteem get into a habit of craving foods that give them comfort like chocolates, pastries, cookies, salty foods etc. These may provide an instant high, but the guilt pangs are equally painful. They do not realise the cause of these mood swings and once again turn to these foods for comfort.

Food addicts are of different types, while some are overweight, others are underweight and some just appear normal. However the problem is as grave for all. Individuals who are overweight may face humiliation and are often lazy and do not move around and socialize too much. Those who are underweight are bulimic. They are obsessed with food but cannot stand to be overweight and hence force themselves to vomit what they have eaten immediately after every meal. And finally those who appear normal, are as obsessed and count calories constantly and are always thinking about what to eat next.

Recovery

Food addiction is a common problem and it can be and should be treated. However it has to start with self actualization. People who are addicted need to face facts and understand that they have a problem that needs to be rectified.

Once they have realised that their obsession with food is a problem they should seek medical attention and understand what it is that is causing the obsession. It could be food allergies that trigger certain cravings, it could be just a resort for comfort or it could simply be an obsession with food.

Individuals that suffer from food addiction need to be dealt with absolute care. Family and friends should support them and help them achieve a new lifestyle and eating pattern. Eating habits have to be modified and the change has to happen overnight. Foods that do them harm should be kept at bay and healthier alternatives should form a part of the diet.

The psychological dependence on food for some is difficult to break, but once an individual has realised the problem the addiction is causing them, getting rid of the problem becomes easier.

Ayushi Kanoi

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