Is your child addicted to junk food?

How to distinguish between normal cravings and more problematic behaviours.

- By CAMILLA FOSTER

JUNK food is now more accessible and enticing than ever, which has led to increased efforts to reduce the promotion of unhealthy food and drink.

Children will see fewer ads for unhealthy food as a voluntary ban by advertisers takes effect ahead of a full crackdown in January.

Here are five red flags that may indicate a junk-food addiction, and expert advice on what you can do to help...

1. INTENSE CRAVINGS BEYOND HUNGER

"One key sign is intense craving beyond hunger. So, the child fixates on specific foods (such as crisps or sweets) and becomes distressed if denied access," highlights Dr Manpreet Dhuffar-Pottiwal, chartered psychologist and specialist in behavioural addictions.

2. LOSS OF CONTROL

"This is the inability to stop eating junk food even when full, often in secret or past the point of discomfort," says Dr Dhuffar-Pottiwal.

3. WITHDRAWAL-LIKE SYMPTOMS

Irritability, mood swings or headaches when junk food is unavailable is another red flag to look out for.

4. NEGLECT OF HEALTHIER OPTIONS

"Persistent refusal of balanced meals or previously enjoyed whole foods could also be a sign," notes the psychologist.