At Food Addiction UK, we recognise the all-encompassing nature of food addiction.

A challenge that can consume both mind and body, it goes beyond simple dietary choices, often impacting mental wellbeing, relationships and overall quality of life.

Meet The Founder

Jodie

As a qualified CBT therapist and wellbeing practitioner, I bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to the challenges of food addiction. Having navigated my own journey, I am committed to guiding others through the complexities of managing food addiction, providing support and tools needed for lasting change.

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Community Connection

Join a compassionate community of individuals who share similar challenges and triumphs, through understanding and empathy.

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Holistic Approach

Recognise that food addiction impacts various aspects of life and discover a holistic approach that addresses the mind, body and soul.

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Expert Guidance

Benefit from the expertise of a qualified CBT Therapist with first-hand experience with food addiction and additional training in eating disorders and addiction.

What Is Food Addiction?

Food addiction is a term used to describe a condition where individuals have a compulsive relationship with food. This can lead to loss of control, cravings, and continued consumption despite negative consequences, leading to behaviours and symptoms similar to those seen in substance addiction. Food addiction is not officially recognised as an eating disorder in the UK. However, many health professionals and researchers acknowledge the existence of behaviours and symptoms associated with food addiction.

Key Features of Food Addiction:


Craving and Obsession

  • Intense cravings for specific types of food, often high in sugar, salt or fat.
  • Frequent preoccupation with thoughts of certain foods, sometimes interfering with daily activities.

Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences

  • Consumption of food even when not physically hungry.
  • Negative consequences such as weight gain, health issues or social and interpersonal problems.

Loss of Control

  • Difficulty controlling the amount of food consumed, leading to overeating.
  • Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control food intake.

Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Experience of withdrawal-like symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety or discomfort when attempting to reduce or stop consuming certain foods.

It is important to note that food addiction is different from binge-eating disorder (BED), which is recognised as an eating disorder in the UK. Characterised by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, and a sense of loss of control during these episodes. If you think you might have this eating disorder, it is important to speak to your doctor and get the right help and support to overcome this.


Food addiction is a complex and debatable concept within the field of nutrition and mental health. Some argue that certain foods, particularly those high in sugar and fat, may have addictive properties that affect the brain similarly to substances abuse. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism and criteria for diagnosing food addiction.

Disclaimer

The information provided by Food Addiction UK is intended for educational and support purposes only. We are not a diagnostic service and the content on our platform is not suitable for professional, medical or psychological diagnosis. Our mission is to offer educational resources and support to individuals facing challenges related to disordered thinking around food.


While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is important to recognise that individual experiences with food addiction may vary and the content on our website is not a substitute for personalised guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. We do not claim to “cure” individuals of food addiction, as recovery is a complex and individualised process.


Participation in our community, events and resources is voluntary and users are encouraged to seek professional advice when needed. The views and opinions expressed by members, moderators or contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of Food Addiction UK.

By accessing our platform, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this disclaimer. If you require specific advice or support, we recommend booking a one-to-one session with Jodie, or consulting with a qualified healthcare professional.


Food Addiction UK is committed to providing a supportive and informative environment.