How does a person know if she has a food addiction? There are signs that point to possible trouble in this area. The following questions may help someone determine whether she is a food addict:

• Do you use foods to change your mood?

• Is food or drink necessary for you to enjoy a social situation?

• Do you eat moderately in front of others, but gorge in private?

• Do you go for hours without eating and then clean out the refrigerator at night?

• Is a meal incomplete without dessert?

Denial, of course, is as much a problem with food addiction as with any other addictive substance or behavior. It is hard for anyone to acknowledge that he may have no control over his eating behaviors.