Food Junkies |

Public domain image courtesy of Pixabay

Foods that are high in sugar, fat and salt can be hard to resist. A study published in 2015 found that " highly processed foods, which may share characteristics with drugs of abuse…appear to be particularly associated with food addiction” and suggested that they're intentionally designed to promote addictive behavior. The study also included a list of the most addictive foods. I must share my weakness for delicious (but high fat) cheeses with many other people; cheese is number ten on the list.

Are you concerned that you may be dealing with a food addiction? You can use this test* (PDF), based on the Yale Food Addiction Scale, to find out more. But while self-assessment is a good place to start, its also important to get professional advice.

On Tuesday January 12 at the North York Central Library, you're invited to attend a talk on food addiction. The speaker is Dr. Vera Tarman, an accredited addiction medicine specialist with a special interest in food addiction. Dr. Tarman is the author of Food Junkies: the truth about food addiction. She will discuss her book and provide practical, evidence-based advice for dealing with this problem.

If you have resolved to change your relationship to food in 2016, attending Dr. Tarman's presentation would be a great place to start!