Addiction to Junk Food, Fats, Sugar, Caffeine and Chocolate

Some people find it hard to lose their excess fats. That is because they have addictions that need to be dealt with. One of the first steps to dealing with addiction is to know that they exist. Here are some examples of food addictions:

*1. Junk Food Addiction*

Research has found that the brains of people who have a special craving or obsession with junk food look similar to those of drug addicts. They have fewer receptors for dopamine, which governs the brain's pleasure centers. These people might need to consume more of pleasurable, aka junk, food, to feel good.

*2. Fat Addiction*

People with a fat addiction are attracted to high-fat foods like dairy products and oily fast food like french fries and onion rings. According to research, this is a biochemical issue. It is not a case of a person lacking the will power to resist. Consuming fat affects the body's brain chemistry, in much the same way as when alcohol or drugs are ingested.

*3. Sugar Addiction*

This is a little uncommon. However, there are indeed folks who experience a "sugar rush" after eating sweet stuff. There is scientific evidence to prove that ingesting substantial sweet food or drinks will affect the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. Without a regular and consistent supply of sugar, these folks will go through withdrawal symptoms too.

*4. Caffeine Addiction*

Caffeine is a socially acceptable addiction. However, that does not mean it is okay to have it. When anything becomes an addiction, it's not good. Anyone who has tried to adopt the "cold turkey" way to eliminate caffeine from his/her system will experience withdrawal symptoms from irritability, headaches or even fatigue and anxiety. These symptoms may take 7 days or more to go of . Some people might not have the will power to withstand the discomfort and choose to start drinking caffeinated beverages.

*5. Chocolate Addiction*

When we are enjoying chocolates, our bodies release serotonin. Serotonin produces a feeling of well-being. This may explain why we always celebrate with chocolate or to console ourselves to feel good again. Of course, chocolate addiction might bring on dental problem.

When we over-consume anything and it becomes addiction, it's no good - emotionally, physically and spiritually. When it comes to food, take a balanced meal. Eat your cakes, have your chocolate but in moderation.

P.S. Taraak , a Longivity Coach, who contributes articles here swears by sprouts, while others like Frederic Paternaude believes raw food is the way to healthy eating. There's no right or wrong, you just have to choose a suitable way that fits your lifestyle. Whatever it is, more greens is good.