Obesity epidemic as consequence of overeating

According to a McMaster University psychiatrist and obesity researcher, the causes of obesity are complex and individual, but it is clear that chronic overeating plays a fundamental role. When this behaviour becomes compulsive and out of control, it is often classified as “food addiction” - a label that has generated considerable controversy

Food addiction can be compared to other addictive behaviours, as both food and drugs can cause tolerance, or an increase in the amount required to achieve intoxication or satiety. Withdrawal symptoms such as mood changes can occur after discontinuing drugs or during dieting. As well, after gastric surgery for obesity, a subset of patients exhibit other addictive behaviours.