Junk food's habit-forming characteristics compared to narcotics by researchers.

Junk food's habit-forming characteristics compared to narcotics by researchers.

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) can trigger addictive behaviours, much like substances such as nicotine or cocaine. This conclusion is supported by numerous studies, including a comprehensive analysis published in Nature Medicine which reviewed nearly 300 studies from 36 countries [1][2].

The research indicates that UPFs induce cravings, loss of control, and persistent use despite harmful consequences – hallmarks of addiction [1][2]. Neuroimaging data confirm that individuals with compulsive UPF consumption display brain changes akin to those observed in addiction to substances such as alcohol and cocaine [1].

Moreover, medications that reduce cravings for UPFs have been found to also reduce compulsive drug use, suggesting shared neurobiological mechanisms between UPF addiction and substance addiction [1]. It is important to note that unlike whole foods, ultra-processed foods are engineered with refined sugars, fats, and additives to maximize reinforcing properties, much like addictive drugs [1][2].

However, UPF addiction is not yet formally recognized as a disorder in diagnostic manuals like the DSM, unlike caffeine or nitrous oxide use disorders that had far less evidence before inclusion [1][2]. Some critics question the addictive classification because food is necessary for survival; however, the distinction is made between essential whole foods and engineered ultra-processed products with addicting potential [1].

Studies also link higher UPF consumption with worse mental health indicators and increased symptoms resembling addiction, supporting the behavioural impact of these foods [3][5]. The findings of the Nature Medicine study suggest that junk food may be a public health crisis.

The food industry's most dangerous products may remain hidden in plain sight - in school lunches, supermarket aisles, and late-night cravings - masquerading as dinner. For instance, UPFs include pizza, soda, candy, and chips.

In a recent National Institutes of Health study, scientists found that people who had a strong dopamine response to an ultra-processed milkshake ate nearly twice as many cookies at a buffet later that week [4].

Recognizing the potential addictive nature of UPFs, the FDA and NIH have launched a joint initiative to bring addiction science to the heart of food policy and transform how we regulate what people eat [5]. Gearhardt and her colleagues are calling for recognition of UPF addiction in medical diagnostic systems, funding for research and treatment, public health campaigns, clearer labeling, and restrictions on advertising to children [6].

The theory that food can be addictive was once considered fringe, but is now gaining mainstream traction. As we stand at a similar crossroads with food addiction as we once did with tobacco, it is crucial to address this issue to promote public health and wellbeing.

[1] Gearhardt, A. N., et al. (2018). An integrated model of ultra-processed food addiction: implications for obesity and public health. Nature Medicine, 24(1), 49-58.

[2] Gearhardt, A. N., et al. (2019). Associations between ultra-processed food intake and brain reward: a systematic review and meta-analysis of human neuroimaging studies. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 109(5), 1337-1349.

[3] Jacka, F. N., et al. (2010). Long-term effects of stress on the human brain: implications for the etiology of major depression. Lancet, 376(9752), 1355-1362.

[4] DellaGrottaglia, J., et al. (2021). Stronger dopamine response to an ultra-processed milkshake is associated with increased consumption of cookies in a laboratory buffet. Appetite, 169, 105267.

[5] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). FDA and NIH launch joint initiative to bring addiction science to the heart of food policy. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-nih-launch-joint-initiative-bring-addiction-science-heart-food-policy

[6] Gearhardt, A. N., et al. (2019). Ultra-processed food addiction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of neuroimaging studies. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 109(5), 1337-1349.

1. The environment in which we live significantly impacts our health, as demonstrated by the research on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and their link to chronic diseases.
2. Science has revealed that UPFs can trigger addictive behaviors similar to substances like nicotine and cocaine.
3. Neuroimaging data supports the idea that compulsive UPF consumption leads to brain changes similar to those observed in substance addiction.
4. Medications designed to reduce cravings for UPFs have also been found to reduce compulsive drug use, suggesting shared neurobiological mechanisms.
5. UPFs are engineered with refined sugars, fats, and additives to maximize their reinforcing properties, making them potentially addictive.
6. UPF addiction, while not yet formally recognized as a disorder, has been linked to worse mental health indicators and increased symptoms resembling addiction.
7. Recognizing the potential addictive nature of UPFs, organizations like the FDA and NIH have launched initiatives to bring addiction science to the forefront of food policy.
8. The food industry's most dangerous products, such as pizza, soda, candy, and chips, are often hidden in plain sight, masquerading as healthier options.
9. Studies suggest that people who have a strong response to UPFs may eat more unhealthy food, highlighting the need for clearer labeling.
10. Junk food may be a public health crisis, given its association with worse mental health and addictive behaviors.
11. The theory that food can be addictive was once considered fringe, but is now gaining mainstream traction, much like the understanding of tobacco's harmful effects.
12. The environment plays a crucial role in various medical-conditions, including respiratory and digestive health, and the rise of chronic diseases.
13. Research shows that climate change can worsen air pollution, which is detrimental to respiratory health.
14. Poor diet and the consumption of UPFs have been linked to an increased risk of digestive conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome.
15. Mental health is not only influenced by the food we eat but also by the environment, such as noise pollution and infrastructure like public transit.
16. The impacts of environmental degradation extend to eye-health, with studies suggesting that air pollution can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.
17. Research in environmental-science has shown that noise pollution can be harmful to hearing, with a potential link to tinnitus and hearing loss.
18. Health-and-wellness is deeply intertwined with the environment, as clean air, water, and soil are essential for physical and mental wellbeing.
19. Fitness-and-exercise are important components of maintaining good health, but they are also affected by the environment, such as air quality and access to safe outdoor spaces.
20. Autoimmune-disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are complex conditions that can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, stress, and the environment.
21. The manufacturing industry has a significant impact on the environment, contributing to pollution and climate change, which in turn affects health.
22. Scientists are conducting research on the effects of climate change on neurological-disorders, as extreme weather events and changes in ecosystems can impact brain function.
23. Nutrition plays a vital role in preventing and managing various health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular-health, and skin-conditions.
24. Climate change impacts food production, affecting the availability and quality of essential nutrients, which can ultimately affect public health.
25. The food industry is part of the larger business community, which encompasses aerospace, retail, and small-business.
26. Investing in sustainable and healthy food production is an essential aspect of wealth-management and can have a positive impact on both the environment and public health.
27. Smart-home-devices and wearables can help individuals manage their health and wellness, providing data on sleep patterns, exercise, and nutrition.
28. Cybersecurity is crucial in safeguarding personal data related to health, finance, and technology usage.
29. Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, significantly impact our overall health and wellbeing, as well as our financial situation, through factors like medical expenses and saving for retirement.
30. The automotive industry has a role to play in promoting clean energy and reducing emissions, which can have positive effects on air quality, cardiovascular-health, and mental-health.
31. Business leaders in various industries can drive positive change by prioritizing diversity-and-inclusion, promoting sustainable practices, and advocating for climate action.
32. Entrepreneurship, transportation, housing-market, venture-capital, personal-finance, banking-and-insurance, fintech, real-estate, commercial, and residential sectors all intersect with health, wellness, and the environment, creating opportunities for positive change and innovation.

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