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SIO406: How Science Made Food Too Addictive
Dec 1, 2023
Dr. Dawn Fariello, a lecturer at Fordham University and expert in food systems, discusses the weaponization of sugar by food corporations. Topics include the addictive nature of sugar, its comparison to cocaine, and the manipulation tactics of food companies for profit.
43:51
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Quick takeaways
- Sugar activates pleasure and reward pathways in the brain, making it highly addictive and potentially more addictive than cocaine.
- Food corporations exploit the concept of the Bliss Point, formulating products to maximize cravings and disregard public health.
Deep dives
Sugar as an Addictive Substance
Sugar is seen as highly addictive and activates pleasure and reward pathways in the brain similar to those of addictive substances like cocaine. Studies even suggest that sugar can be up to eight times more addictive than cocaine. Sugar is processed in the brain through pleasure reward pathways, resulting in a craving for more. The dopamine release from sugar remains at a high level for an extended period, leading to prolonged pleasure and reinforcement of addictive behaviors. This addictive nature of sugar has significant implications for public health and contributes to issues like obesity and diabetes.
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