Often the smell or first taste of foods containing addictive substances trigger an eating binge that exceeds voluntary control. This context-dependent addictive behavior must be recognized before behavioral modification succeeds in correcting compulsive eating disorders. Recovering addicts may do well in neutral or new environments which are free of the old signals and contexts. However they can be triggered by returning to the cafe, pub, family home or friend's place where they practiced their additive behavior. Eating Behavior and Disorders Human relationships are built around shared pleasurable experiences.
Some people get fat because they share an eating relationship with friends and spouses.
Often spouses start getting fat after marriage, as an expression of mutual caring through a pleasure bond . Others get fat because they are lonely and idle at night. Others get fat because food pleasures are the easiest, most available form of self-gratification. Compulsive eating often emerges in early childhood as a dysfunctional pattern. If cravings and compulsive eating are associated with physical symptoms, mood and behavioral disorders, the diagnosis of food allergy must be considered.