More and more we hear reports of food which has become unsafe for human consumption. Health hazard alerts have been numerous, leading us to wonder what is safe to eat.

It would not be accurate to say that food addiction or over eating is the cause of obesity, nor would it be accurate to say that all obese people are addicted to food or even predisposed to over eating tendencies; however, it is certainly unquestionable that the increase in global obesity rates is alarming in a world with limited health care resources. In a recent article published on WebMD in collaboration with the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, it has been suggested that food addicts develop a physical, mental, emotional craving and chemical addiction to food similar to conditions which affect alcoholics.

As with other addictions, time which has been invested in education, prevention, or support programs is well spent; and, although more research at this time is critical, understanding some of the potential reasons for food addiction and obesity remains extremely important.