Overeating or Food Addiction?

It seems as though we become a society that refers to almost everything as an addiction. Food addiction is an issue but how do you know the difference between overeating or true food addiction? According to a recent ABC news story there are certain criteria for diagnosing a food addiction. According to the news story Dr. Pamela Peeke a nutrition and fitness expert claims that science now backs up the reality of food addictions. According to Peeke, but addiction is an only about food lovers who simply enjoy food. It is more closely related to those who cannot stop themselves from eating and do not get satisfaction after eating the foods they love. One of the indicators she refers to is eating quickly to get a high or false fix. And then, if you are immediately consumed with emotions like satisfaction, guilt, shame, or blame this could be a trigger for food addiction. Immediately following these feelings food addicts have the compulsion to want more food. Researchers from the National Institutes of Health proves that an appropriate amount of dopamine which is a feel good chemical in the brain is released when good food is consumed. According to the study of food addicts brain scan compared with a cocaine abusers brain scan shows that both brains have a scant amount of dopamine because of long-term overuse. There are solutions to help food addicts. Slowly weaning off foods that are high in sugar or salt as well as fatty foods and replacing them with alternative sources can help. Eating proteins and fiber will also help to supply the brain with amnio acids that will help to curb cravings. Dr. Kim urges patients who are struggling with fluctuating weight issues to be proactive concerning the appearance of weight. Patients who address weight gain early have more options when choosing cosmetic plastic surgery. Body contouring procedures like liposuction or abdominoplasty are not recommended for patients who are obese. However, patients who address small amounts of weight gain early by changing their lifestyle and eating habits combined with choosing cosmetic plastic surgery not only look better but feel better as well. Patients who are considering cosmetic plastic surgery are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.