Our food is killing us. Ultra Processed food is the cause of so many diseases that we must educate the public as to this grave threat to health.
Jeffrey Odwazny, a 54-year-old from Chicago, shares his lifelong struggle with addiction to ultraprocessed foods—a battle that began in his childhood. His preference for sugary, highly processed snacks over healthier options was so strong that it led him to behaviors like hoarding candy wrappers and stealing from stores. This addiction was more than just a preference; it was driven by a physical need for these foods.
The tobacco industry created the ultra-processed food industry.
They shifted scientists to make the food addictive.
And shifted their lobbyists to convince the USDA to tell us this crap is safe.
When will we stop falling for this?
Thanks @DrPhil @drphilprimetime pic.twitter.com/U2H8KiA7L0
— Calley Means (@calleymeans) June 22, 2024
Research indicates that this problem is widespread, affecting approximately 12% of the United States’ child and adolescent population. These young individuals exhibit symptoms similar to those seen in other types of addiction, such as loss of control and physical discomfort from overeating. The situation is even more concerning as about 14% of adults also show signs of food addiction, often beginning these habits in their adolescence.
The allure of ultraprocessed foods is linked to their high content of sugars, fats, and additives, which are believed to manipulate the brain’s reward system, particularly in young, developing brains. This manipulation can overpower the rational decision-making processes typically managed by the prefrontal cortex, leading to a cycle of intense cravings and compulsive eating.
Professionals like David Wiss, a dietitian specializing in food addiction, and Ashley Gearhardt, a researcher at the University of Michigan, describe how these foods trigger a disproportionate release of dopamine in the brain. This effect is likened to that caused by substances like nicotine and alcohol, suggesting a serious addiction potential. The ease of access and low cost of these foods further exacerbate the issue, particularly affecting lower-income families and thereby also becoming a social justice concern.
(CNN) — Chicago native Jeffrey Odwazny says he has been addicted to ultraprocessed food since he was a child. https://t.co/NYzEe7fae5
— Crossroads Today (@CrossroadsToday) June 27, 2024
Despite the compelling evidence and the personal testimonies from individuals like Odwazny, there remains significant debate within the scientific and food industry communities. Organizations like the Institute of Food Technologists and the International Food and Beverage Alliance argue against the classification of food addiction, citing a lack of consensus and the potential for these claims to overlap with other eating disorders rather than substance-related disorders.
Odwazny’s journey through addiction included extreme measures like bariatric surgery and multiple rehab attempts for binge-eating disorder. It wasn’t until he found a program that addressed both binge-eating and food addiction that he began to find relief. This integrated approach helped him understand the roots of his addiction and provided him the support needed to manage it effectively.
You’re being poisoned.
And I’m not just talking about mRNA shots.
Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, and they come with some serious health risks.
A recent meta-analysis found that a significant intake of ultra-processed foods results in:
• 15% to 27% increased risk of… pic.twitter.com/gipgT8wUpu
— The Vigilant Fox 🦊 (@VigilantFox) March 22, 2024
Today, Odwazny is on a path of recovery, aided by his wife and the community he found during treatment. He is studying to become a certified alcohol and drug counselor, hoping to help others with similar struggles.
Major Points
- Jeffrey Odwazny, a 54-year-old from Chicago, has battled an addiction to ultraprocessed foods since childhood, characterized by an overwhelming preference for sugary snacks.
- Approximately 12% of U.S. children and adolescents exhibit similar food addiction symptoms, showing loss of control and significant distress related to eating habits.
- The addictive properties of ultraprocessed foods are linked to their high levels of sugar, fat, and additives, which can manipulate the brain’s reward system and impair decision-making.
- Despite compelling personal testimonies and some supporting research, there is considerable debate in the scientific community about classifying excessive consumption of these foods as an addiction.
- Odwazny’s recovery journey involved multiple rehab attempts and a specialized treatment program that addresses both binge-eating and food addiction, illustrating the complex nature of this issue.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
