A groundbreaking survey has uncovered that a large majority of British adults experience the urge to eat when they aren't genuinely hungry, with half battling these temptations regularly.
The research, carried out by digital health company Numan alongside research platform Attest, surveyed 2,000 UK adults about "food noise" – the persistent, intrusive thoughts about eating that plague people throughout their day.
The findings paint a stark picture for those living with obesity. They are twice as prone to feeling their food-related thoughts are beyond their control compared to others: 42 per cent versus 21 per cent.
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While just a quarter of participants had previously encountered the term "food noise", an overwhelming 84 per cent identified with the experience once it was defined for them. Worryingly, giving in to food noise can lead to obesity.
The study exposed that 43 per cent of respondents think about food constantly, with evenings proving particularly challenging.
Almost a third of participants find resisting late-night snacking difficult, a figure that climbs to nearly 40 per cent among those with obesity.
Participants identified multiple catalysts for their eating impulses. Boredom topped the list at 33 per cent, followed by seeking comfort through treats at 26 per cent.
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Almost a third of UK adults find it difficult to resist late-night snacks
| GETTYStress affected 24 per cent, while depression influenced an equal proportion.
Environmental factors proved equally influential. The widespread presence of takeaway options troubled 35 per cent of respondents.
Strategic positioning of confectionery in shops affected 24 per cent, while workplace treats and television advertising each influenced 19 per cent.
The mental health implications are also profound. Half of those with weight issues reported that their food relationship damages their psychological wellbeing, compared to just 20 per cent of other participants.
Zoe Griffiths, a registered dietician and vice president of behavioural medicine at Numan, believes that tackling food noise demands more than simply advising people to reduce their intake. Indeed, a holistic approach is required.
'You may feel food noise is easier to deal with once you've set a plan'
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"Many people experience food noise and emotional or environmental eating triggers, such as stress, boredom, social situations, or even certain sights and smells can exacerbate the issue," she told GB News.
"Recognising that food noise is a symptom of a problem that can be treated (the medical condition of obesity) is a crucial starting point.
"People who experience food noise are not weak-willed, but rather experience biologically driven issues."
Ms Griffiths advocates for comprehensive approaches that address both mental and physical aspects.
This includes developing stress management techniques that don't involve food, ensuring adequate sleep to balance hunger hormones, and integrating sustainable physical activities into everyday life.
The dietician outlined three key approaches for managing intrusive food thoughts.
First, she suggested "being one step ahead of physical hunger" by preparing nutritious meals and snacks in advance, warning that genuine hunger amplifies food-focused thinking.
Her second strategy involves creating structured eating routines. Suggesting regular meal preparation, she advised: "You may feel food noise is easier to deal with once you've set a plan. Set it and 'try to' forget it."
Finally, Ms Griffiths urges self-compassion for those struggling. "If you are experiencing food noise, finding the mental burden hard to cope with, and it's impacting your quality of life, it's not your fault. You are not alone. Seek support."