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The United States is considered the “fast food capital of the world”.

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With McDonald’s and Wendy’s locations on every corner, convenience plays a major factor.

Drive-thrus additionally play into the convenience and offer speed of service to keep up with our fast-paced lifestyles.

Fried Chicken

Finger-lickin' good and also dangerously addicting.

french fries

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Fried chicken is a fast food item to beware of for many of the same reasons as French fries.

MSGis used as a flavor enhancer to produce an even bolder umami taste.

The substance is not necessarily considered addictive by itself.

Chicken tenders

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Soda

There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a crisp, bubbly soda from the drive-thru.

But there’s also no other beverage that’s quite as addictive.

The aspartame (an artificial sugar substitute) in diet sodas has also been found to have similar effects.

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But, we also have to take into account the caffeine.

We crave this rewarding feeling, especially as we cope with the inevitable crash that follows.

Foods with these properties, that also contain fat, have beenlinked to eating behaviors that mimic addiction.

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McDonald’s

Cheese is addictive all on its own, thanks to the presence of casein.

Casein is a milk protein that breaks down into casomorphins.

These compounds can attach to dopamine receptors in your brain, resulting in feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.

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Keep that in mind next time you order from Pizza Hut or Domino’s.

Different kinds of cookies may also be more addictive than others.

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