Have you ever wondered why it is so hard to stop using your phone or why you always crave coffee? It might not be just you. A growing number of studies have discovered that although everyday items seem harmless they have addictive effects on your brain.
Who would’ve thought a simple slice of pizza or randomly scrolling through social media could have such a powerful hold on us? Surprisingly, these innocent-looking items trigger the same reward systems in our brains as any drug. So, let’s consider 16 everyday items that are addictive like drugs.
1. Sugar
Sugar is a sweet temptation that carries plenty of hidden dangers. Although it is seen as a harmless indulgence, it has a powerful hold on our body and brain. Sugar intake triggers the brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that triggers a reward system in our bodies. As a result, a positive feedback loop activates, leaving us to crave more.
Some processed foods have hidden additives, like artificial sugar, which make it impossible to stop eating. Surprisingly, some store-bought yogurt, bread, or frozen fruits contain unhealthy amounts of sugar. Studies have shown that high sugar consumption leads to obesity, diabetes, and even cancer.
2. Salted Snacks
Salty snacks like crackers, potato chips, and pretzels also have an addictive nature– that’s why you keep coming back for more. Your brain finds the combination of salt and fat quite appealing. Also, salt cravings can be attributed to boredom or stress.
When you eat salted foods, the hypothalamus, a part of your brain, releases dopamine. This produces the same effect when you eat sugary foods. Other than salt and fat, many prepackaged foods have unhealthy additives that make them more appealing.
3. Coffee
The coffee craze in America is ever-growing, and according to a survey, almost 62% of Americans have at least a bit of it daily. It’s not only popular in the U.S., but it is also loved by millions of people worldwide. For most of us, it’s more than just a quick energy jolt. While there are plenty of benefits to having coffee, it’s not safe to have more than about 5 cups a day or 600 milligrams of caffeine.
The reason behind its highly addictive nature is caffeine. This stimulant is linked with increasing energy levels and alertness by stimulating the central nervous system. Over time, your brain can become used to having coffee daily, making it difficult to function without it. Hence, if you skip having it sometimes or are trying to break the habit, you may face some withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
4. Chocolate
Chocolate is a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages. Its combination of sugar, fat, and caffeine makes it hard to avoid. The psychoactive ingredients in chocolate include tryptophan and phenylethylamine, which trigger the reward system within the brain.
Researchers at Yale University discovered that when given a chocolate milkshake, those with higher scores on a food addiction scale showed an increase in brain activity, similar to how drug addicts react to a hit. After participants began consuming the milkshake, there was a notable drop in brain activity in regions that regulate the desire to pursue rewards. This shows that there may be similar brain mechanisms in food addiction and drug addiction.
5. Cell phones
The smartphone addiction epidemic has taken the world by storm. You might have noticed that no matter how hard you try, you just can’t resist the urge to pick up your phone. Even I like to keep it with me and check it every few minutes. If you can relate, then you might be among the 10% of addicted social media users.
The constant stream of notifications from Facebook, TikTok, and emails keeps us hooked. As a result of excessive use, you may end up neglecting other responsibilities. One study found that as of 2024, there are over 6.8 billion smartphone users worldwide receiving almost 5 times the amount of notifications they did 10 years ago.
6. Video Games
Whether it is screen time or video games, they can become an addiction, damage your health, and ruin your relationships. Online gaming and virtual worlds have heightened the chances of developing this addiction in recent years. Researchers suggest that video game addiction affects between 1.7% and 10% of the U.S. population.
Gaming is similar to any other addiction as it results in the secretion of dopamine and creates a strong psychological association like drugs do. The idea of winning the game elevates the level of this neurotransmitter and keeps you stuck in a loop for a longer time, which is classified as an addiction.
7. Gambling
Gambling is seen as a harmless kind of entertainment, but it can become addictive pretty quickly. The thrill of the unknown, the idea of winning a huge amount of money, and many other factors contribute to its addiction.
Although only 1% to 2% of the total U.S. population has this addiction, the numbers are constantly rising. Whether it’s online, at poker tables, or slot machines, the rise in dopamine levels after winning keeps a person returning for more. An unhealthy obsession with the casino can result in financial instability, relationship issues, and much more.
8. Excessive Work
While working is an essential part of one’s life, the workaholic trap is as scary as it sounds. This phenomenon of working can become easily addictive and you don’t even realize it until it happens. Such a condition is termed “workaholism” and if left unchecked it can have negative consequences on overall well-being.
When we’re successful at work, it creates a sense of happiness and social validation that we crave more of. Other times, a fear of failure lingers upon us causing fear and anxiety. While there is nothing wrong with working, becoming famous, or minting money, it is important to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
9. Hoarding
Hoarding is a clutter trap that most of us need to avoid. While it is not as common as others, hoarding can become a debilitating condition. Typically, such addiction arises due to fear of loss or any traumatic events that may have impacted your mental health and triggered a compulsion to hoard.
Signs of hoarding can look like excessive accumulation of unwanted things, inability to let go of possessions, living in overcrowded places, or even social isolation.
10. Cigarettes
Cigarettes are one of the most addictive everyday items on the planet. They contain nicotine which is a highly addictive substance and if left uncontrolled, can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Excessive use of cigarettes can cause high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and a multitude of respiratory issues.
The World Health Organization found that smoking is responsible for 90% of lung cancers in men and 70% in women. Additionally, smoking contributes to nearly 80% of respiratory diseases and 22% of cardiovascular diseases.
11. Exercise
When fitness becomes an obsession, it is not a good sign. Although exercising is good for health, being addicted to it leads to negative consequences instead of positive ones. This phenomenon is known as “exercise bulimia”.
The reason behind such behavioral addiction can be traced back to body image issues, perfectionism, or most commonly dopamine release. You must love the feeling after an intense workout session, but sometimes you have to say no to that endorphin-fueled runner’s high if your body needs rest.
12. Shopping
Retail therapy is a trap and you end up buying stuff you don’t really need and will probably regret later. The thrill of bargaining, instant gratification after spending money, and other social pressures can all contribute to compulsive behavior.
The fear of missing out (FOMO) on limited editions, sales, social validation, and status makes you spend more than you can afford or intend. To avoid such behavior, you must engage in activities that don’t involve shopping like spending time in nature or pursuing hobbies.
13. Volatile Solvents
Volatile solvents easily evaporate at room temperature. They are found in paint thinners, glues, and cleaning agents and create a euphoric high similar to that of any drug. According to research, up to 3% of adolescents use such inhalants to get high.
The use of such volatile solvents is a dangerous and illegal activity. Inhalation leads to dependence, making it difficult to withdraw especially for young people.
14. Aerosols
Aerosols contain tiny particles that spread in the air like gas. Normally found in household items like air fresheners, hair sprays, and deodorants. Similar to volatile solvents, aerosols can also give you a sense of being “high”.
The type of gasses in these products is the main reason behind their addictive nature. Hence, it is important to know the risks associated with these everyday items.
15. Spices
Spices are generally considered safe, but one such dangerous spice is nutmeg. It is a common household spice, but excessive use can lead to serious health issues. Ingesting more than a few teaspoons can lead to euphoria and hallucinations because of the substance Myristicin.
Abuse of nutmeg can cause abnormal heart rhythms, agitation, nausea, and vomiting. However, long-term risks include liver damage, permanent brain damage, muscle weakness, or even memory loss.
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Aqsa is a passionate writer who loves spending her free time jotting down her thoughts. But that’s not all. She is a devoted mom to two boys and a skilled pharmacist specializing in hematology. When she’s not running after her energetic kids, you can find her lost in a good book or writing beautiful words. A nature lover at heart, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, staying active, and always seeking ways to learn new things.
Aqsa is a passionate writer who loves spending her free time jotting down her thoughts. But that's not all. She is a devoted mom to two boys and a skilled pharmacist specializing in hematology. When she's not running after her energetic kids, you can find her lost in a good book or writing beautiful words. A nature lover at heart, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, staying active, and always seeking ways to learn new things.
