A new study published in the journal The BMJ has found that ultra-processed foods may be as addictive as smoking. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of São Paulo in Brazil, found that people who eat more ultra-processed foods are more likely to have symptoms of food addiction.
The study followed over 2,000 people for two years. The researchers assessed the participants’ ultra-processed food intake and their symptoms of food addiction. The researchers found that people who ate more ultra-processed foods were more likely to have symptoms of food addiction, such as:
- Cravings for ultra-processed foods
- Difficulty controlling their intake of ultra-processed foods
- Continuing to eat ultra-processed foods even when they know it is harming them
The researchers also found that people with symptoms of food addiction were more likely to develop obesity and metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
What are ultra-processed foods?
Ultra-processed foods are foods that have been industrially processed to the point where they have little resemblance to their original ingredients. Ultra-processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, and low in nutrients. Examples of ultra-processed foods include:
- Sugary drinks
- Packaged snacks
- Fast food
- Processed meats
- Instant meals
How ultra-processed foods may be addictive
Ultra-processed foods may be addictive for a number of reasons. First, ultra-processed foods are often designed to be hyper-palatable, meaning that they are high in sugar, fat, and salt, which are known to be rewarding to the brain. Second, ultra-processed foods are often easy to eat and digest, which can lead to overconsumption. Third, ultra-processed foods may contain additives that have addictive properties.
Health risks of ultra-processed foods
Ultra-processed foods have been linked to a number of health problems, including:
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Cancer
Implications for public health
The findings of this study have important implications for public health. The study suggests that ultra-processed foods may be a major contributor to the obesity epidemic and other chronic diseases. The study also suggests that ultra-processed foods may be as addictive as smoking, making them difficult to quit.
What can be done?
There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods and the risk of food addiction. These include:
- Educating the public about the dangers of ultra-processed foods
- Regulating the marketing and sale of ultra-processed foods
- Making healthy foods more affordable and accessible
Individuals can also reduce their consumption of ultra-processed foods by following these tips:
- Cook more meals at home
- Choose fresh, whole foods over processed foods
- Avoid sugary drinks and packaged snacks
- Read food labels carefully and avoid foods that are high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt
If you think you may have a food addiction, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand your food addiction and develop a plan to overcome it.
Conclusion
The study’s findings suggest that ultra-processed foods may be as addictive as smoking. This is important because it means that people who eat a lot of ultra-processed foods may have difficulty controlling their eating habits and may be at an increased risk of developing health problems.
