

What’s more, evidence suggests that food addiction is very common. A survey of past studies using the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) suggests that as many as 20% of people may have a food addiction. Another recent study, also using YFAS, measured the addictiveness of different foods. The findings confirmed that the most addictive foods were heavily processed foods with more fat and sugar.
The 10 Most Addictive Foods
According to participants in the study, who rated a wide range of commonly loved foods, the 10 most addictive foods were:
- Pizza
- Chocolate
- Chips
- Cookies
- Ice cream
- French fries
- Cheeseburgers
- Soda (not diet)
- Cake
- Cheese
Also near the top: Bacon, fried chicken, plain rolls, buttered popcorn, breakfast cereal, gummy candy, steak, and muffins.
How to Resist Food Addiction
Food addiction, like any addiction, has to do with your body chemistry and your brain. Not only are the foods above tasty and fun to eat, they also trigger massive sugar imbalances in your blood and dopamine reactions in your brain—two factors linked with food and other addictions. You get a short-term reward, frequently followed by a hollow feeling and craving for more.
The solution? Eat more whole, single-ingredient foods. Meet the 10 least addictive foods, according to that same YFAS-based study:
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Beans with no sauce
- Apples
- Brown rice
- Broccoli
- Bananas
- Salmon
- Corn with no butter or salt
- Strawberries
Also near the bottom in terms of addiction: granola bars, crackers, pretzels, chicken breasts, eggs, and nuts.
You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
If you realize you’re struggling with food addiction, you don’t have to struggle alone. Get support from friends and family, but also consider a support group for addiction or nutrition. Reach out any time. We’re happy to help you get on the road to better eating and better health.