The evidence is mixed but suggestive. Research by Gearhardt shows highly palatable foods engaging the brain reward pathways addictive drugs engage — in an imaging study of 39 young women. Some people show addiction patterns: craving, loss of control, continued use despite consequences. Whether this constitutes clinical “addiction” is debated, but the behavioral and neurological parallels are real. The label matters less than the pattern.
This companion covers the case for and against food addiction, and practical implications. (3 min read)
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