14 DAY TRIAL // Over the past few years, more and more studies have demonstrated that sugar and sweet foods can be as addictive for the human brain as drugs or alcohol. Many researchers still resist the idea, but the fact is that the amount of data supporting this claim is very large. This hypothesis may explain why so many people are unable to regulate their sugar intake.
Neuroscientists such as Nicole Avena, from Columbia University, have shown in recent papers that sweet foods can trigger the same neurotransmitters, and activate the same neural pathways, as those activated after consuming drugs, or found in other addictions. The dopamine-centered reward system in the human brain is the main culprit behind these addiction-like patterns, she says.
Avena was also the expert who created the colorful and informative video above, which shows the foods containing sugar, and explains how the brains react to the various types of sugar we encounter in our everyday lives. She also explains how sugar overconsumption leads to dependence over time.
For people who seem to have a well-developed sweet tooth, Avena recommends moderation and caution. Resistance to sugar can increase significantly over time, meaning that people who really like it will start to crave it more and more. This will expose them to a higher risk of developing diabetes or becoming obese, NPR reports.