Don’t those look yummy? Want to eat them ALL? Can’t help yourself? Uh-oh. Scientists in New Zealand may want to talk to you. Their new research finds carbs are as addictive as cigarettes. As addictive as cigarettes – it sounds a bit harsh, doesn’t it?
“Heavily processed carbohydrates such as cornflakes, sweets and croissants quickly raise the amount of sugar in your blood,” lead researcher Dr. Simon Thornley says in the Daily Mail. “This rush of sugar stimulates the same areas of the brain that are involved with addiction to nicotine and other drugs.”
And Thornley suggests refined foods should get the same serious treatment as cigarettes – banning TV ads, taxing them and putting health warnings on packages.
What do you think? Are carbs really as addictive as cigarettes? Should they be treated the same way? I can see the addiction – but I’m still processing the “as cigarettes” part.
[Photo Credit: stock.xchng]
No, not as addicting as cigarettes. I’m really not into the “which is worse” kind of comparing anyway. I believe in addressing all problematic areas to reach solutions. Does make good press and get one’s name into the news, however. On a personal note, I’m still bummed on not being chosen for the next Surgeon General
I think there is some truth to this. I never turned down a plate of macaroni & cheese, a piece of fresh baked bread with butter or for that matter a cigarette. It’s hard to explain, but you just feel good. Comfort I guess. I know when to say when, with food, however it took me years. Now it’s time for the other.
Dr. J,
Sorry about the Surgeon General gig. It was probably the sunglasses.
LissaL,
Does this mean you’re trying to stop smoking? Good for you!
What bothers me about this is all of these do gooders who seem to want to protect me from myself. In a free society, if you are not hurting someone else, you should be able to do what you want. I’m all for health and fitness, but if I want some carbs, I don’t want someone telling me I can’t. Or putting extra taxes on “sinful” food, etc. If you’re going to equate carbs with cigarettes, where will it stop? Talk about a slippery slope. The fact of the matter is that the human mind can become addicted to anything. Drinking, video games, TV … even exercise! These are individual issues, however, unique to each person. It should be dealt with on the individual level, not through government.
Rant over. I’m going to eat a doughnut now
- Dave
Sounds like they have an agenda and are trying to rationalize it.
“Addiction” has lost its meaning in recent years. Any excessive habit or some strong urge difficult to curb is deemed an addiction.
I have always thougt of addiction as a physical problem and a habit as psychological.
The meaning is changing, I think, to excuse some problems and regulate others.
I think it is taking it to the extreme by banning the ads and putting warning labels, etc.
But I am definitely a carb-o-holic and need a 12 step program!
Is there a patch for us?
I think that carbs are so addicting because they are just so tasty! I mean, how delicious are breads, cakes, sweets, chips? Most yummy snack foods are carbs. I do hear people craving a steak (protein), but usually only at mealtime. It’s also true that carbs are readily available and could be eaten at any time of day.
Good point, Dave. And I hope you enjoyed that doughnut.
Oh workoutmommy, we should totally invent a patch – that’s our claim to riches right there!
I’m with you, Sheri – LOVE the sweets, unfortunately!
I agree with workout mommy and Sheri. Help me!!!!
I could see it. I’m addicted to both. Currently trying to NOT obsess over pasta and potatoes, but can’t stop myself from smoking just yet. One uphill battle at a time!
~
I agree with Dave about the freedom to choose. Love workoutmommy’s idea for a patch for carbs
(go get a patent on that NOW!!!)I currently have the other patch on-I’d say it’s working, but I am unhappy. This journey will not be an easy one. And I do not want to turn back to the sugar/carbs-been there done that.
One battle at a time is the right idea, Jenn. More than that is way too overwhelming!
Sign me up for the patch! I can believe carbs are addictive, but only the cookies, cakes, chips, chocolate kind. Whose ever heard of anyone addicted to apples or carrots?!
mumcat – You crack me up! I need a patch, too.
I’d take a patch that gets me addicted to healthy foods. It sounds so wrong, yet so right.lol