Older Adults, Particularly Generation X Women, Show Increased Signs of Ultra-Processed Food Addiction

As the first generation of Americans to grow up immersed in highly processed foods—products often loaded with excess fats, salt, sugar, and artificial flavorings—many older adults, especially women from Generation X, are exhibiting signs of addiction to these foods. These foods, designed to maximize appeal and foster cravings, have been a staple in their diets since childhood and young adulthood.

Recent research indicates that approximately 21% of women and 10% of men in their 50s and early 60s—those belonging to Generation X and the late Baby Boomers—meet criteria for ultra-processed food addiction. This prevalence is significantly higher compared to older adults aged 65 to 80, where only 12% of women and 4% of men show similar signs.

The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan and published in the journal Addiction, analyzed data from over 2,000 older Americans through the U-M National Poll on Healthy Aging. The researchers utilized a modified Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0, a standardized tool that assesses addictive behaviors related to ultra-processed foods—such as intense cravings, failed attempts to reduce intake, withdrawal symptoms, and social withdrawal due to food-related concerns.

A notable finding is the gender disparity: older women are more likely than men to show signs of food addiction. This pattern might stem from targeted marketing strategies in the 1980s promoting "diet" ultra-processed foods like low-fat cookies and microwave meals, which, while marketed as health-conscious options, may have reinforced addictive eating habits.

The study also revealed strong links between ultra-processed food addiction and issues like overweight perception, poor health, and social isolation. Women and men who perceive themselves as overweight are significantly more likely to exhibit addictive behaviors, with some women being over 11 times more likely to meet criteria if they consider themselves overweight. Poor mental and physical health, as well as feelings of social isolation, also correlate with higher addiction rates.

Looking forward, researchers warn that the current cohort of older adults is living in a food environment dominated by ultra-processed foods, which may increase long-term health risks due to addiction. Furthermore, today's children and adolescents consume even higher proportions of such foods, potentially leading to higher addiction rates in future generations. Implementing early interventions could be vital in reducing lifelong addiction risks.

Overall, these findings highlight the need to address dietary habits and marketing practices to mitigate the impact of ultra-processed foods on vulnerable populations, especially older women, and to promote healthier eating patterns across the lifespan.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-older-adults-gen-women-addiction.html