Compulsive Behaviors and Food Addiction
Unraveling the Link Between Compulsive Behaviors and Our Relationship with Food.
The journey to overcome substance abuse is a testament to human resilience. Yet it often leaves a lingering “void” that can take unexpected forms. One I know all too well.
A less-discussed aftermath is the potential transition from compulsive substance-seeking behaviors to food addiction. Spurred by food's legality, social acceptance, and its ability to activate the same brain circuitry as drugs, especially sugary foods. This shift can lead to an intricate web of issues, one that many health professionals are not truly trained to tackle.
The psychological imprint of addiction often persists, steering individuals toward new avenues to satisfy cravings. In the absence of substances, some find solace in overindulging in palatable foods, as the brain's reward pathways that are triggered by both drugs and sugary foods are the same. The craving for the high glucose content in foods can hijack the circuitry responsible for pleasure, leading to the repetition of compulsive behaviors just like other addictions.
Food addiction is similar to substance addiction, characterized by uncontrollable urges to consume specific foods, with similar traits such as tolerance and loss of control. This is exacerbated by the social acceptance of food, perpetuating a cycle that can be just as demanding as drug dependency, if not more so, due to its accessibility.
Health professionals experienced at addressing substance abuse, often face uncharted waters when it comes to food addiction. This gap in knowledge can result in insufficient care or misdiagnosis, rendering effective treatment an elusive pursuit.
Genetics and environment further compound these addictive behaviors, rendering some individuals more susceptible to both substance and food addiction. Environmental factors, including societal stigma and upbringing, can further amplify the risk, creating a cycle of shame and secrecy that silences those in need of support.
The stigma attached to obesity exacerbates this dilemma even more. Society often unjustly equates body weight with willpower, perpetuating misconceptions and prejudice against those struggling with food addiction. I have seen underweight individuals struggle with food addiction just as much. This disconnect further alienates individuals and impedes their journey toward recovery.
The aftermath of substance abuse recovery can pave the way for the emergence of a food addiction which underscores the need for comprehensive education and awareness among professionals supporting those in recovery. A holistic approach that addresses multifaceted factors—genetic, environmental, and social is vital in ensuring a supportive environment for recovery.
If you are feeling your relationship with food is being impacted by compulsive behaviors, we invite you to join Soul Sisters United, a safe community where you can voice out your struggles and connect with professional coaches and therapists who are trained in this area and really understand this topic.
If you are a Health Professional looking for better tools to support your clients struggling with their relationship with food, you are welcome to join our Professional Food Addiction Coach Certification.
Source: Volkow, N. D., & Wise, R. A. (2005). How can drug addiction help us understand obesity?. Nature neuroscience, 8(5), 555-560.
