Can you really be addicted to food? Researchers are uncovering convincing similarities to drug addiction

A consensus is emerging among scientists that certain foods are addictive for some people. But questions remain about which foods, which people and why.

By: Claire Wilcox, University of New Mexico, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 17, 2026

Words: 1,530

Last Updated: 12 hours, 24 minutes ago

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By Claire Wilcox, University of New Mexico

People often joke that their favorite snack is “like crack” or call themselves “chocoholics” in jest.

But can someone really be addicted to food in the same way they could be hooked on substances such as alcohol or nicotine?

As an addiction psychiatrist and researcher with experience in treating eating disorders and obesity, I have been following the research in this field for the past few decades. I …

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