Did you ever wonder why there are so many books written about diets? Why are there so many different weight loss programs? But here is the REAL question…why are so many Americans overweight? If any of these diets or programs worked long-term, we would not be one of the most overweight nations. We are addicted to foods. Yes, I said addicted. The sugar, fat and salt that we love to consume, triggers a release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter in our brain. After a while, our brains become “trained” to release dopamine just by suggestions of the foods, such as driving by the “golden arches” or smelling chocolate. When you actually eat the food, you now release opioids plus the dopamine. Even though our bodies naturally produce some opioids, guess what a man-made opioid is – pain medications, like morphine. Do you think you feel good with the release of dopamine and opioids? That’s why eating these foods are truly addictive. They cause your brain to physiologically respond, making you feel good, just like a drug does. David Kessler, MD has done much research on this topic, as have many other scientists. When you combine fat and salt (chips) or sugar and fat (donuts) or refined foods (white flour products, white pasta), it causes a bigger surge of dopamine, which reinforces the eating behavior. If you want to lose weight or just overcome your addiction to food, it takes 8-12 weeks to create a pleasure shift-taste preference. Manufacturers of food are well aware of this addictive power and use it to their advantage when advertising and formulating new food products. Have you seen Lindt’s new ad for dark chocolate with “a touch of sea salt”? It’s not about willpower. Now that you know it’s not your fault, what do you do about it? Call for a Free Inspired Health Consultation!

TIPS & NOTES

Make Ahead Tip: Prepare through Step 2. Store green beans and corn separately, in plastic bags lined with paper towels, in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.

NUTRITION

Per serving: 155 calories; 9 g fat (1 g sat, 5 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 17 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 3 g protein; 5 g fiber; 147 mg sodium; 425 mg potassium.  From EatingWell.com

By Jan Hempstead

Jan Hempstead, RN and Certified Health Coach, is founder of Inspired Health Coaching. Her practice is dedicated to improving the lifestyles of her clients through transforming their health with a process that will assist individuals with both achieving and sustaining optimal health. Services include One-on-One coaching and Group Tele-classes. Call 1-888-963-9963 for a complimentary exploratory session. Visit Jan's web site to sign up for her free email newsletter.

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