Do you have a hard time resisting certain foods? Do you find yourself eating even when you’re not hungry? If so, you may be at risk for food addiction. It is a mental health issue that can negatively affect your health and overall life. In this blog post, let’s discuss common symptoms of food addiction and options for treating this issue.
5 food addiction symptoms:
1. Eating more than your intended amount
One of the first signs that you may be at risk for food addiction is if you find yourself eating more than you intended to. This can be a problematic symptom to spot because it’s easy to rationalize overeating.
For instance, “I was so hungry.” Or, “I didn’t realize how much I was eating.” If you find yourself making excuses for your eating habits, you may have a problem.
2. Eating when you’re not hungry
Another symptom of food addiction is eating when you’re not hungry. It can be difficult to spot because people often eat when they’re not hungry. Sounds strange, right? But it’s true.
You may be bored, stressed, or just in the mood for something tasty. If you find yourself eating often when you’re not hungry, you may be at risk for food addiction.
3. Losing control? It could be a food addiction symptom
Another common symptom is losing control. That means you can’t stop eating even when you want to.
You may feel like you’re in a trance or have to eat even when you’re not hungry. This activity can have serious health consequences, including obesity and diabetes. If you feel like you’re losing control of your eating, it’s important to seek help from a medical professional or therapist who specializes in food addiction.
4. Guilt and shame
Another symptom of food addiction is feeling guilt or shame after eating. You know that you’re not supposed to be eating, but you can’t help it.
You may feel like you have no control over your eating habits and that you’re a bad person. If you feel guilty or ashamed after consuming food, you might have an addiction.
5. Eating in secret
A common symptom of food addiction is eating in secret. You’re ashamed of your eating habits, and you don’t want anyone to know about it.
Perhaps you feel like you have to hide the food or eat in secret places. If you find yourself eating in secret, you could be at risk of addiction.
See the symptoms? Ways to treat food addiction
1. See a therapist
If you think you might be struggling with addiction, the first step is to see a therapist. A therapist can help you understand your thoughts and emotions toward food and help you develop healthier eating habits.
2. Join a support group
Many support groups exist for people who struggle with their relationship with food. Joining this community can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
3. Get professional help
If you’re struggling with food addiction, you may need to seek professional help. This can include seeing a doctor or nutritionist or even checking into a treatment center. Procedures like inserting a gastric balloon can help some people gain more control and lose weight.
Concluding words on food addiction symptoms and treatment
Food addiction is a severe condition that can negatively affect your health and overall life. If you think you may be at risk for a mental health condition, seek help from a medical professional or a therapist who specializes in food addiction as soon as possible.