We hear a lot about addiction these days—drug addiction, alcohol addiction and more—but what about food addiction? Is it a real addiction? What is it exactly? And can it be treated? Today we’ll discuss some of the telltale signs that a person is suffering from a food addiction.

Food addiction is characterized by compulsive and excessive eating, abnormal intake of food and sometimes crazy cravings. Like other addictions, food addiction is a pathological disorder that can be very harmful to the person suffering from it. Additionally, the person with the food addiction may continue with their habits, even though they know they are harmful.

Some signs of food addiction include, but aren’t limited to:

• Eating when you are not hungry or when you feel depressed
• Obsession or preoccupation with food
• Lack of control when it comes to food
• Eating in secret
• Consuming large amounts of food and then purging (forcing yourself to vomit or using laxatives)
• Eating harmful foods (extremely spicy foods, foods you are allergic to, etc.) or items that aren’t meant to be eaten at all (chalk, paper)
• Feeling guilty after eating

Food addiction can also lead to some actual physical symptoms, which include (but aren’t limited to):

• Weight changes
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Depression
• Moodiness

Treatment for those with food addiction can be similar to those with a drug or alcohol addiction. It can include counseling, group therapy and even 12-step programs. Additionally, it may include regular doctor’s visits to monitor weight and health, and working with a nutritionist.

If you think you or someone you know may be suffering with food addiction or with an eating disorder, contact Solace Counseling. We can help create a customized treatment plan to suit the specific needs of the patient. If you found this information helpful, or if you know people who you think could benefit from it, please share it with your friends on Facebook and Twitter.