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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Addiction Towards Peppermint Puffs And Corn Starch?

I have an addiction for peppermint puffs and sticks I eat on average 60 to 80 puffs or 2-10 stick packs a day. I ended up with split skin behind the ears and Dr said it s yeast to stop eating them but that habit stems from an addiction from cornstarch baby powder which stemmed from years of eating pure cornstarch which stems from eating bleach sand and so forth now I m 32 and don t know what to do. I am on supplements and have been for years but if it ever came down to eating food, peppermint puffs, or cornstarch then I will choose about 2 pounds worth of puffs or cornstarch. HELP WHAT SHOULD I DO?!
Mon, 9 Mar 2020
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Food addiction involves the same areas of the brain as drug addiction. Also, the same neurotransmitters are involved, and many of the symptoms are identical. Processed junk foods have a powerful effect on the reward centers of the brain. These effects are caused by brain neurotransmitters like dopamine. While it’s possible to overcome addiction without help — even if it takes several tries — it can often be beneficial to seek help.

Many health professionals and support groups can aid in overcoming your addiction. Finding a psychologist or psychiatrist who has experience in dealing with food addiction can provide one-on-one support, but there are several free group options available as well. These include 12-step programs like Overeaters Anonymous (OA), GreySheeters Anonymous (GSA), Food Addicts Anonymous (FAA), and Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA). These groups meet regularly — some even via video chat — and can offer the support needed to overcome addiction.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Saranya Ramadoss, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Addiction Towards Peppermint Puffs And Corn Starch?

Hi, Food addiction involves the same areas of the brain as drug addiction. Also, the same neurotransmitters are involved, and many of the symptoms are identical. Processed junk foods have a powerful effect on the reward centers of the brain. These effects are caused by brain neurotransmitters like dopamine. While it’s possible to overcome addiction without help — even if it takes several tries — it can often be beneficial to seek help. Many health professionals and support groups can aid in overcoming your addiction. Finding a psychologist or psychiatrist who has experience in dealing with food addiction can provide one-on-one support, but there are several free group options available as well. These include 12-step programs like Overeaters Anonymous (OA), GreySheeters Anonymous (GSA), Food Addicts Anonymous (FAA), and Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA). These groups meet regularly — some even via video chat — and can offer the support needed to overcome addiction. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Saranya Ramadoss, General & Family Physician