Food addicts often follow the same kind of 12-step program used by alcoholics.  This involves admitting their powerlessness over food, their belief that they could be restored to sanity, and an admission of their faults and failings.

Food addicts often draw strength from support groups made up of people who have similar difficulties dealing with food.  Just knowing that there are other people who face the same challenges can be incredibly therapeutic.

However, It is unclear at this point whether food addiction is a genetically-based illness.  But, there is evidence of eating patterns being passed down from one generation to the next.  In fact, many food addicts may only seek help after they have determined that their illness could adversely affect their children.

It is entirely possible that a food addiction can never be cured, only that it can only be treated.  In other words, the recovery period for the addiction can last a lifetime.  Even thought this is the case, one should never lose hope of beating a food addiction. 

With patience and with time, individual addicts can learn the behavioral skills which will enable them to keep their weight under control.  Of course, there will be times when individuals will be tempted to indulge in sweets or excessive carbohydrates.  However, knowing the pain that they will undergo if they continue their harmful eating habits could be just the incentive they need to stay on target.