Why might my child be addicted to junk food?

Seattle-based pediatrician Robert A. Pretlow M.D.'s 10-year research was published in the peer-reviewed medical journal, "Eating Disorders," under the title "Addiction to Highly-Pleasurable Food as a Cause of the Childhood Obesity Epidemic: A Qualitative Internet Study."

Dr. Pretlow quotes The End of Overeating, "Foods today are much more hedonic than in the past … layered with sugar, salt, fat, and high-tech flavorings … hyperpalatable foods are much more the norm today," to explain that modern foods are "much more comforting and much more addicting" and why obesity in children has been a growing concern. When polled, participants stated chocolate, fast food, chips, and candy were the foods that were the most problematic for them. It seems that the enjoyment received from the tastes and textures of food displaced stress, sadness, guilt, and other negative feelings, while eating provided a distraction from the stressors creating the negative emotions.

While more research is needed, treatment professionals should consider incorporating substance dependence treatment techniques when working with children who want to decrease weight and/or food consumption, especially when dealing with specific problem foods.