According to recent research conducted by the National Poll on Healthy Aging, approximately 13% of Americans aged 50 to 80 display signs of addiction to processed foods. The prevalence of this addiction is higher among women, overweight individuals, and those with poor physical or mental health. These findings emphasize the importance of healthcare providers incorporating screenings for addictive eating habits as part of routine health assessments.
The study reveals even higher rates of potential addiction to processed foods among older adults who are overweight, isolated, or experiencing mental health issues. Whether referred to as comfort foods, highly processed foods, junk foods, empty calories, or simply some of Americans’ favorite indulgences, a significant portion of older Americans maintain an unhealthy relationship with these food choices, as per the poll.
In fact, the data from the National Poll on Healthy Aging suggests that roughly 13% of individuals between the ages of 50 and 80 exhibited signs of addiction to such foods and beverages in the past year. Notably, the percentage is considerably higher among women, particularly those in their 50s and early 60s. Additionally, older adults who self-identify as overweight, lonely, or in fair or poor physical or mental health displayed a greater likelihood of addiction to processed foods.
The National Poll on Healthy Aging, supported by AARP and Michigan Medicine, is conducted by the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation. Led by U-M psychologist Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, the poll team employed a standardized questionnaire known as the Yale Food Addiction Scale, consisting of 13 questions. This tool gauged the presence and frequency of addiction indicators related to highly processed foods such as sugary drinks, sweets, salty snacks, and fast food. These indicators include intense cravings, an inability to reduce intake, and signs of withdrawal.
Based on the research findings, Dr. Gearhardt recommends integrating these standardized questions into routine screenings at doctors’ offices. By doing so, healthcare professionals can identify older adults with addictive eating habits and provide appropriate referrals to nutrition counseling or programs that support individuals in addressing addictive eating or gaining affordable access to healthier food options.
Dr. Gearhardt, an associate professor in the U-M Department of Psychology and member of IHPI, asserts that although the term “addiction” may appear strong when applied to food, scientific research demonstrates that our brains respond just as strongly to highly processed foods—especially those high in sugar, simple starches, and fat—as they do to substances like tobacco and alcohol.
Similar to smoking or drinking, it is essential to identify individuals who have developed unhealthy patterns of food consumption and offer support in cultivating a healthier relationship with food. In order to meet the addiction criteria for highly processed foods, older adults had to report experiencing at least two of the 11 addiction symptoms associated with these food choices, alongside significant eating-related distress or life problems occurring multiple times per week. These criteria align with the diagnostic process for addiction-related issues concerning alcohol, tobacco, and other addictive substances.
Based on these criteria, the research found the following rates of addiction to highly processed foods:
- 17% of adults aged 50 to 64, and 8% of adults aged 65-80
- 22% of women aged 50 to 64 and 18% of women aged 50 to 80
- 32% of women who reported fair or poor physical health, and 14% of men in the same category—a rate over twice as high as among those who reported excellent, very good, or good physical health
- 45% of women who reported fair or poor mental health, and 23% of men in the same category—three times as high as among those who reported excellent, very good, or good mental health
- 17% of men who self-identified as overweight, compared to 1% of men who considered themselves around the right weight
- 34% of women who self-identified as overweight, compared to 4% who considered themselves around the right weight
- 51% of women who reported frequently feeling isolated from others, and 26% of men who reported the same—a significant contrast to 8% of women and 4% of men who rarely experienced isolation.
The most commonly reported symptom of addiction to highly processed foods among older adults was intense cravings. Nearly one in four (24%) respondents claimed to experience such strong urges to consume highly processed foods at least once a week, to the point where they couldn’t think of anything else. Furthermore, 19% of participants admitted attempting and failing to cut down or stop eating these foods at least 2 to 3 times per week.
An additional 12% disclosed that their eating behavior caused significant distress 2 to 3 times per week or more.
Jeffrey Kullgren, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., the poll director and an associate professor of internal medicine at Michigan Medicine, stresses the importance of healthcare providers understanding how food addiction and problematic eating intertwine with their patients’ physical and mental well-being. This includes considering chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and specific types of cancer. Dr. Kullgren emphasizes that cravings and behaviors related to food are rooted in brain chemistry and heredity, and some individuals may require additional support, similar to those seeking to quit smoking or drinking.
The poll report is based on data obtained from a nationally representative survey conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago for IHPI. The survey, administered online and via phone in July 2022, involved 2,163 adults aged 50 to 80. The sample was subsequently weighted to accurately represent the U.S. population.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about food addiction in older Americans
What percentage of older Americans show signs of addiction to processed foods?
Around 13% of older Americans between the ages of 50 and 80 show signs of addiction to processed foods, according to a recent poll by the National Poll on Healthy Aging.
Are rates of food addiction higher among specific groups?
Yes, rates of food addiction are higher among women, overweight individuals, and those reporting poor physical or mental health. The research indicates that these factors contribute to a higher likelihood of addictive eating habits.
What are the key findings from the poll?
The poll found that addiction to highly processed foods was seen in 17% of adults aged 50 to 64, and 8% of adults aged 65-80. Additionally, women aged 50 to 64 had a higher rate of addiction (22%), and the percentages were significantly higher among those reporting fair or poor physical or mental health.
What are the most common symptoms of addiction to processed foods?
The most common symptoms reported by older adults addicted to processed foods are intense cravings, an inability to cut down on intake, and signs of withdrawal. The poll revealed that 24% experienced intense cravings at least once a week, while 19% attempted and failed to reduce their consumption of these foods 2 to 3 times a week.
How can healthcare providers address food addiction in older adults?
Healthcare providers should integrate screenings for addictive eating habits into routine health assessments. Identifying individuals with addictive eating habits can allow for appropriate referrals to nutrition counseling or programs that support healthier eating behaviors. The goal is to help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food and improve their overall well-being.
More about food addiction in older Americans
- National Poll on Healthy Aging
- University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation
- AARP
- Michigan Medicine
- Yale Food Addiction Scale
- NORC at the University of Chicago
7 comments
Wow, these stats are crazy! So like, 13% of older peeps are addicted to junk food? That’s like, a lot! We gotta take this seriously and help them out, ya know?
I’m not surprised by these findings. Processed foods can be super addictive, and it’s sad to see so many older folks struggling with it. We need to raise awareness and provide support for them to develop healthier eating habits.
Hold on a sec, addiction to food? That sounds a bit extreme. But hey, if our brains react to junk food like they do to other addictive stuff, maybe it’s time we take it seriously. Let’s help those who are hooked on processed foods.
It’s concerning to see that addiction to processed foods is more prevalent among overweight individuals and those with poor health. This emphasizes the need for comprehensive health assessments and personalized support to break free from these unhealthy eating patterns.
These findings highlight the importance of nutrition counseling. By incorporating addiction screenings and offering guidance on healthier food choices, we can empower older adults to improve their overall well-being and make positive changes in their lives.
Loneliness and isolation seem to contribute to food addiction. It’s heartbreaking to think that some people turn to unhealthy eating habits for comfort. We should prioritize social connections and provide resources to combat both physical and mental health challenges.
The intensity of cravings reported by those addicted to processed foods is alarming. It’s crucial that we address the underlying reasons behind these cravings and help individuals find healthier alternatives. Let’s break free from the cycle of addiction and promote a better relationship with food.