Introduction
In recent years, the concept of food addiction has emerged as a prominent topic in the study of overeating, obesity, and binge eating disorder (BED). This theory posits a connection between certain eating behaviors and the addictive qualities observed in substance use disorders (SUDs). The central focus of the debate surrounding food addiction revolves around whether foods high in calories, particularly those containing specific ingredients like sugar, share an addictive potential comparable to drugs. While proponents of this idea draw parallels between the behaviors associated with SUDs and excessive food consumption, critics argue that there are notable differences in the neural effects of food and drugs, adding complexity to the discussion. Moreover, the absence of a universally accepted and precise definition for food addiction, coupled with ongoing disagreements on the equivalence of its symptoms to those of SUDs, contributes to the controversy. (Slade et al., 2018)
In response to these debates, researchers have developed tools such as the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) to systematically measure and diagnose food addiction based on established substance dependence criteria. By investigating the prevalence and features of food addiction in people with bulimia nervosa (BN), a particular eating disorder marked by periods of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, this study seeks to advance the current conversation. By utilizing the YFAS, the research seeks to understand the extent to which food addiction is present in individuals with BN, including those currently experiencing symptoms and those in remission. Additionally, the study aims to investigate how food addiction may vary between individuals with BN and a control group without the disorder. Through these investigations, researchers aim to uncover insights into the nuanced relationship between food addiction, eating disorders, and related psychological factors, ultimately advancing our understanding of the complex interplay between addictive behaviors and disordered eating. (Slade et al., 2018)