Why You Can’t Stop Sugar Cravings—And How to Fix It (Neuroscientist Explains)
The Liz Moody Podcast
Why sugar can act like a drug in the brain
Nicole Avena explains her research showing sugar releases dopamine and produces tolerance, withdrawal, and craving similar to drugs.
If you find yourself constantly craving sugary sweets and desserts—this episode is for you. There’s a reason this is happening (and it's not entirely your fault!) and there are ways to stop your cravings—in the moment and for the long term.
I sit down with Dr. Nicole Avena, a neuroscientist and a Princeton and Mount Sinai professor, and one of the world’s leading researchers on sugar addiction, to uncover what sugar is really doing to your brain.
We dive deep into the biology of cravings and how the modern food environment is designed to keep you hooked. You’ll learn why “natural” sweeteners might not actually be the solution, and the small changes that work to reduce your sugar intake without going cold turkey.
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how sugar impacts your mental and physical health—and the science-backed tools to curb your sweet tooth.
🎧What you’ll learn:
- Why sugar lights up the same brain pathways as addictive drugs
- How social media and screen time are increasing your cravings
- The science of dopamine tone—and how to reset it naturally
- How to spot hidden sugars in “healthy” foods and labels
- The step-by-step plan to reduce sugar without feeling deprived
👇Reflect or share: What’s one craving you experience regularly—and how do you think your environment is shaping it? Comment below—I’d love to hear your story!
✨Homework: Swap one sweet breakfast for a savory one this week, and try one tech-free morning. Then notice: How do your energy, focus, and cravings shift?
For more from Dr. Nicole Avena:
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The Liz Moody Podcast cover art by Zack. The Liz Moody Podcast music by Alex Ruimy.
Formerly the Healthier Together Podcast.
This podcast and website represent the opinions of Liz Moody and her guests to the show. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for information purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions.
The Liz Moody Podcast Episode 379.
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