Quiz: Are You a Food Addict?

Yale scientist Ashley Gearhardt modeled the Yale Food Addiction Scale on standard assessments for substance abuse, with the goal of distinguishing food addicts from mere overeaters. Below is a condensed version from Pamela Peeke’s new book, The Hunger Fix

by Norine Dworkin-McDaniel

Photograph: Illustrated by Thomas Fuchs

Please answer questions 1 through 7 using this numerical key

0: never

1: once a month

2: 2 to 4 times a month

3: 2 or 3 times a week

4: 4+ times a week

1. I find myself consuming certain foods even though I am no longer hungry. ____

2. I worry about cutting down on certain foods. ____

3. I feel sluggish or fatigued from overeating. ____

4. I have spent time dealing with negative feelings from overeating certain foods instead of spending time in important activities such as time with family, friends, work or recreation. ____

5. I have had physical withdrawal symptoms such as agitation and anxiety when I cut down on certain foods. (Do not include caffeinated drinks: coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, etc.) ____