TOOmuchJUNK

Why do we crave junk food?

Apparently there are two factors that make the experience of eating junk food pleasurable. First, there is the sensation of eating the food. This includes what it tastes like (salty, sweet, savory, etc.), what it smells like, and how it feels in your mouth. The "feel" known as “orosensation” — can be particularly important. Food companies are spending millions to discover the most satisfying level of crunch in a potato chip and scientists are testing for the perfect amount of fizzle in a soda. These factors all combine to create the sensation that your brain associates with a particular food or drink. The second factor is the actual macronutrient makeup of the food — the blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that it contains. In the case of junk food, food manufacturers are looking for a perfect combination of salt, sugar, and fat that excites your brain and gets you coming back for more.

Photos by PETER HIVES

25 junk food facts:

How to kick the junk food habit?

1. The 5-ingredient rule - To eat in a way that is better for you as well as the planet, read labels and avoid anything with more than five ingredients (don't go too far haha 'cos if meat would be labeled it would probably include blood meal, hydrolyzed feather meal, ground limestone, cooked municipal garbage, linseed meal solvent, oat straw, potato waste, dried poultry manure, soybeans, wheat, antibiotics and so much more :().

2. Eat a variety of foods - Our brain covers novelty. Vary your diet enough to keep things interesting and to get a novel of sensation even tho I think you will kind of have to fall in love with "meal boredom" :D.

3. Deal with your stress - Many people eat as a way to cope with stress. When we get stressed, our brain feels the addictive call of fat and sugar and we’re pulled back to junk food. Simple breathing techniques, some exercise or a short guided meditation could be a different way of dealing with a stress.

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10 reasons to stop eating junk food!