These are the six most common foods that could make you addicted if you eat them

Addiction to ultra-processed foods (UPF) has become an increasingly worrying public health problem in contemporary society. These products, characterized by their high content of saturated fats, added sugars and additives, have flooded supermarket shelves. and fast food menus, generating an addiction that goes beyond a simple preference for its flavor.

Experts are concerned about the long-term impact of FPUs around the world. According to a new study published in a special issue of British medical journal, One in seven adults and one in eight children could be addicted to ultra-processed foods.

“Ultra-processed foods high in refined carbohydrates and added fats are highly rewarding, appealing, consumed compulsively, and can be addictive,” the researchers said.

Mass consumption of these foods has been linked to a significant increase in diet-related illnesses, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and increased risk of cancer. This addiction is fueled by the combination of factors that include the accessibility of these products, their high palatability and the constant advertising that promotes them.

Recent research suggests that FPU dependence It can be compared, in terms of brain mechanisms, to addiction to substances such as tobacco or alcohol. Highly processed ingredients can alter brain chemistry, creating a compulsive craving for these foods and making it difficult to control their consumption.

The researchers said: “Refined carbohydrates or fats evoke similar levels of extracellular dopamine in the striatum of the brain to those seen with addictive substances such as nicotine and alcohol. » “Based on these biological and behavioral parallels, foods that contain high levels of refined carbohydrates or added fats are good candidates for becoming an addictive substance.”

The analysis was carried out by researchers from the United States, Brazil and Spain, who examined 281 studies carried out in 36 different countries and found that it is estimated that Addiction to ultra-processed foods affects 14% of adults and 12% of children.

“While people can stop smoking, drinking or gambling, they can’t stop eating,” said co-author Alexandra DiFeliceantonio, an assistant professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute. “The challenge, and still open and controversial question, is to define which foods have the greatest addictive potential and why.”

According to research, the 6 most addictive foods are:

1. Drinks

2. Fries

3. Cookies

4. Prepared meals

5. Ice cream

6. Fruit yogurts .

Researchers now say that behaviors linked to ultra-processed foods, which are high in refined carbohydrates and added fats, may meet the criteria for a substance use disorder diagnosis in some people.

These behaviors include less control over drinking, intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and continued drinking despite consequences such as obesity binge eating disorder, poorer physical and mental health and lower quality of life.

Considering that certain foods are addictive could lead to new approaches to social justice, clinical care and public policy. the researchers said.

Furthermore, recognized the policies implemented by Chile and Mexico on labeling, taxes and marketing, associated with reduced calorie intake and reduced purchases of foods high in sugar, saturated fat and salt.

“There is converging and consistent support for the validity and clinical relevance of food addiction,” said Ashley Gearhardt, corresponding author of the paper and professor of psychology at the University of Michigan in the US. “By recognizing that certain types of processed foods have addictive properties, we can help improve global health.”

The call is for more studies and scientific research on ultra-processed foods to understand how the complex characteristics of ultra-processed foods combine to increase their addictive potential. Also better define which foods may be considered addictive based on differences between countries and communities, including disadvantaged communities, and understand the value of public health messages.

The authors concluded that while more research is needed, what is clear is that ultra-processed foods high in refined carbohydrates and fats were “clearly consumed as part of addictive patterns” and led to adverse health consequences.