Ultra-processed foods like sodas and hotdogs might be delicious, but is it possible to become addicted to them? This is the central issue in a unique lawsuit that argues these foods can be addictive and questions their effect on our brains.
The lawsuit, filed in Philadelphia, involves Bryce Martinez, who says he developed type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease from consuming ultra-processed foods made by companies like Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, and General Mills. Martinez received these health diagnoses when he was just 16 years old.
Martinez claims that these companies were aware their products were harmful and intentionally made them addictive. The lawsuit suggests these companies used strategies similar to those of tobacco firms to flood our food environments with addictive substances targeted towards children and minorities. It accuses them of conspiracy, negligence, fraudulent misrepresentation, and unfair business practices, seeking both compensatory and punitive damages.
Ultra-processed foods have been associated with various serious health issues, including some cancers and dementia. While the lawsuit’s outcome is uncertain, it stirs curiosity about whether these foods can truly be addictive and whether our fondness for them stems from addiction.
Food processing levels are categorized based on the NOVA classification system, which ranks foods into four groups. Ultra-processed foods are usually factory-made, heavily refined products with little to no whole food ingredients. They often contain refined carbs, added fats, sugars, and artificial additives to enhance flavor and enjoyment. Despite lacking nutritional value, they make up about 70% of the U.S. food supply.
It’s common to say you’re hooked on your favorite snack, but scientists use strict criteria to define addiction. The American Society of Addiction Medicine describes addiction as a treatable, chronic disorder involving intricate interactions between brain pathways, genetics, the environment, and individual life experiences. Addictive behaviors are compulsive and persist despite harmful consequences.
It is challenging to determine if ultra-processed foods are addictive. Although some people might experience an addictive relationship with food, it’s unclear if this is specifically due to ultra-processed foods. We must be cautious about labeling them as such.
These foods can activate the brain’s reward systems. When we see ads for them or eat them, specific brain areas linked to reward, like the striatum and orbitofrontal cortex, light up, leading to cravings. However, for most people, ultra-processed foods don’t have the same addictive qualities as substances like cocaine. People often develop a habit of eating them due to their tasty nature, accessibility, and heavy marketing. They can make us feel good, especially when we’re having a rough day or feeling stressed.
Nevertheless, there is evidence suggesting ultra-processed foods might be addictive. They are designed to deliver strong doses of rewarding ingredients, stimulating brain pathways related to pleasure and motivation. Refined carbs, like sugar and white flour, can cause fluctuations in blood glucose, thus enhancing reward-related brain activity and cravings. The fats in these foods also activate the brain’s pleasure centers, and the additives are included specifically to boost taste, texture, and appearance.
Some individuals might be more susceptible to this than others. Studies show that about 15% of people display signs of substance-use disorders concerning their intake of ultra-processed foods, like continuing consumption despite negative outcomes, facing withdrawal, and developing tolerance.
Whether you believe you’re addicted to ultra-processed foods or simply find them hard to resist, there are ways to reduce your consumption. Breaking the habit requires both behavioral and environmental strategies, such as recognizing personal triggers like stress or boredom, which helps in making healthier choices. It’s also unwise to cut out these foods abruptly. A gradual shift towards whole, minimally processed foods can make the change more manageable. It’s smart to keep these foods out of your home and plan meals ahead to avoid resorting to convenient, ultra-processed options. Regular exercise, even just 20 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, can boost cognitive control, making it easier to handle cravings.
Having ultra-processed foods occasionally is generally fine. Many agree that moderate consumption is acceptable, but it’s important to prioritize unprocessed and minimally processed foods whenever possible.
