Cognitive neuroscientist Gemma Sedgmond, PhD, an eating behavior researcher and senior lecturer at the University of the West of England in Bristol, says it’s very difficult to know whether ultra-processed foods are addictive. Scientific evidence shows that some people can indeed become addicted to food, and there are parallels between food addiction and other addictive behaviors. But it’s unclear whether this is due to ultra-processed foods.
Ph.D., a researcher and neuroscientist at the University of Exeter in England. Cassandra Lowe tells Health that overly processed foods can activate reward areas in the brain. This can increase food cravings and the desire to eat it. However, these foods do not cause the same cravings as cocaine and other substances in most people. On the contrary, the use of such products is associated with habit.
But there is scientific evidence to show that ultra-processed foods can be addictive. The sugar and white flour used to create these foods can cause blood sugar levels to rise and fall suddenly. This increases reward-related brain activity and leads to cravings for these foods.
Fats found in ultra-processed foods also activate the brain’s reward systems. Additionally, ultra-processed foods contain additives that improve their taste, texture, and appearance.
Studies have shown that approximately 15% of people show symptoms of substance use disorder due to excessive consumption of processed foods.
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Source: Ferra
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