The Real Reason You Can’t Stop Eating the Foods That Don’t Serve You

You know the ones… the cookies, goldfish, or ice cream that taste so good in the moment, but leave you feeling sluggish, unsatisfied, and frustrated with yourself. We’ve all been there. We’ve all made promises to ourselves that we just couldn’t keep. Maybe you’re struggling with one of these internal battles right now. Maybe the pantry or freezer calls your name too many times throughout the day. Maybe you’re fed up with feeling powerless over food and have become ashamed and disheartened by your “lack of self control and discipline.” 

I’m here to tell you that the way you feel about the processed, packaged, and oh-so-delicious foods from the grocery store has nothing to do with your willpower or your commitment to your health. Food scientists and the research and development teams of food companies work incredibly hard to engineer addictive processed foods. They experiment with different ratios of fat, salt, and sugar so consumers endlessly crave their goods. They obsess over the texture, crunch, and appearance to maximize profits. They even watch humans’ brain responses to consuming different foods, and then create and market those that cause the biggest spike in dopamine upon consumption. 

My point is this: Your cravings for ultra-processed and highly-palatable packaged foods are not your fault. And honestly, the idea that you will one day have the strength to eat them in moderation is unlikely. That’s why I believe that keeping these foods out of your home is the best thing you can do to combat the physical and emotional ramifications of overindulgence. If you are one of the few humans who don’t feel called to eat just one more Pringle, I am in awe. But for most of us–true food freedom is found when you simply say no at the grocery store and instead stock your fridge and pantry with primarily whole, nature-made foods. Release yourself from the constant internal dialogues about food, the negotiations in your head, and the need to white knuckle your day. Set yourself up for success, and don’t allow big food companies to control your mind or your health. 

Cheers to whole foods and home cooking!

XO,

Kara