Imagine a bowl of fresh fruits sitting next to a tempting packet of potato chips. Odds are, most children would reach for the chips without a second thought. But why? Welcome to the world of food addiction, where the allure of highly processed snacks can be irresistible.

While not formally recognized as a clinical substance use disorder, food addiction describes a pattern of compulsive or uncontrollable eating that isn’t driven by hunger but rather by the intense pleasure derived from certain foods.

These highly rewarding foods, packed with sugar, fat, and salt, have a potent effect on the brain’s reward circuitry, triggering a surge of dopamine similar to what occurs with addictive substances like drugs and alcohol. This dopamine rush fuels a relentless cycle of consumption, often leading to adverse physical, emotional, and social consequences, despite attempts to resist. So, the need of the hour is to identify these signs of addiction that will help your child lead a healthy life as explained by leading child dietician and nutritionist in Delhi, Avni Kaul.


What are the signs to look for that shows your child is addicted to processed foods?

Hoarding or Stockpiling - A child addicted to processed foods may develop a habit of stockpiling their favourite snacks in various places, such as their room, backpack, or hidden spots around the house. This behaviour arises from a deep-seated fear of running out of their preferred food and a strong desire to maintain constant access to it.

The act of hoarding food can manifest in different ways, including keeping leftovers in unconventional places, like under their bed or in a drawer away from their parents’ view. However, this practice poses serious health risks, as it can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and potentially cause food poisoning, especially if the child’s immune system is weak.

Hiding Food - Children may develop cravings for processed foods due to their highly palatable and addictive nature, which often includes additives that stimulate pleasure centres in the brain. This can lead to secretive behaviour in obtaining and consuming these foods, including the creation of secret stashes of items like cookies, cakes, chips, and candy, which are easily concealable and shelf-stable......

Read here - https://www.avnikaul.com/blog/2024/02/11/signs-your-kid-is-addicted-chips/