A new study identifies evidence of food addiction in brain scans.  Using functional, or real-time, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), scientists observed brain activity in 12 overweight or obese men in the four hours following a meal.  At the same time, the researchers also measured their blood sugar and hunger levels.  They found that certain high-glycemic carbohydrates including white bread and potatoes stimulated areas of the brain related to reward and cravings.  Triggering these areas of the brain can help with weight control.  Also, it shows a neurological pathway for food addiction.

Food addiction is not a fully developed area of addiction research.  In general, food addiction refers to a compulsion to overeat and an obsession with food.  There are some that feel mentally obsessed with food, but have managed to control their consumption in order to maintain a healthy weight.  Others have turned to eating disorders, particularly bulimia, in order to compulsively eat without taking on the calories.

Scientists have a growing body of research that demonstrates that processed foods include chemicals that facilitate addiction, similar to drug abuse.  Some of the most addictive foods include white bread, potato chips, fries, candy, and ice cream.  The carbohydrates in these foods present the same problems as those identified in the research.  The high-glycemic load is not part of a healthy diet.

High-glycemic foods lead to quick spike in blood sugar rather than a stable increase to satisfy hunger and prevent cravings.  This is usually associated with less nutritious food, such as low-fiber and high-carbohydrate items like common pastas.  Studies have shown that consumption of these types of foods increases the risk of diabetes because the spikes cause the body to be unable to properly produce and regulate with insulin.

Obesity is a common issue in the U.S.  Currently, more than one-third of adults are clinically obese.  The medical costs associated with obesity and related medical conditions are estimated to be around $147 billion.  An individual that is obese will take on medical costs that are, on average, $1,429 greater than someone with a normal weight.  Obesity rates vary from state to state, with Mississippi having the highest rate at 34.9 percent and Colorado at the low end with 20.7 percent.

Some states and cities are taking extra measures to address obesity within their jurisdiction.  The most controversial recent measure is the attempted soda ban in New York City.  Governments and researchers will continue to look for ways to reduce the financial and medical burden of obesity.