Is food taking up too much space in your life? Eating to cope with emotions, losing control around certain foods, or feeling guilty and secretive about eating can be signs of a deeper problem. This free, confidential self-test has 18 short yes-or-no questions. It takes about three minutes, and at the end you will see what your answers suggest and what to consider next.
Take the food addiction self-test
Answer each question honestly, based on the past few months.
The results are not a diagnosis. Some of the questions touch on eating disorders. If you answered yes to any question about vomiting, using laxatives, over-exercising or restricting food, please talk to your doctor, whatever your overall result.
Food addiction and eating disorders
“Food addiction” describes a pattern of losing control around food, especially highly processed, sugary or fatty foods, and continuing to eat that way despite harm. It is not a formal diagnosis. It often overlaps with recognized eating disorders such as binge eating disorder, bulimia and anorexia, which need professional assessment and care.
Common warning signs
- Eating to cope with stress, sadness, anger or boredom
- Losing control around certain foods
- Eating in secret, or differently when alone
- Strong guilt or shame after eating
- Strict rules about food, skipping meals, or compensating after eating
- Family or friends worrying about your eating or your weight
Where to get help
A good first step is to talk with your doctor or an eating disorder specialist. In the US, the National Alliance for Eating Disorders offers a free helpline at (866) 662-1235. If you feel unsafe or are in crisis, call or text 988 in the US, or call 1201 (ERAN) in Israel.
If you are not sure where to start, or if food is part of a wider struggle with addiction, contact Retorno for a confidential consultation. Our English-speaking team will help you think through the right next step.
Frequently asked questions
Is food addiction a real diagnosis?
Not formally. The term describes a real pattern of losing control around food, and it often overlaps with eating disorders that can be diagnosed and treated.
Can this test diagnose an eating disorder?
No. A self-test can help you notice patterns, but only a professional can assess what is going on and what kind of care fits.
What should I do if my result shows warning signs?
Talk with your doctor or an eating disorder specialist. In the US you can also call the National Alliance for Eating Disorders helpline at (866) 662-1235.
Read more about food addiction, cravings and emotional eating.
Finished the self-test?
You don't have to figure this out alone
A self-test can't diagnose an addiction, but it can be a sign that it's time to talk to someone. Our English-speaking team can help you understand your options, for yourself or for someone you love.
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