The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka 198. Dynorphins: This Brain Chemical Is Why You’re Addicted to Junk Food
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Sep 4, 2025 Explore how dynorphins, the brain's hidden power players, impact our eating habits and cravings for junk food. These peptides interact with brain circuits linked to addiction, leading to increased drive for food rewards. Recent studies suggest that blocking certain receptors could help combat binge eating, providing new hope for treating food addiction. Delve into the science behind these impulses and the potential for innovative therapies to tackle compulsive eating and obesity.
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Dynorphins Directly Drive Appetite
- Dynorphins are brain peptides that bind kappa opioid receptors and regulate appetite and energy handling.
- Injecting dynorphins increases eating without affecting other behaviors, showing a targeted hunger role.
Dynorphins Influence Metabolism Too
- Mice lacking dynorphins gained more weight on high-fat diets despite equal or lower food intake.
- This implies dynorphins affect metabolism and energy efficiency, not just hunger.
Kappa Receptors Link To Binge Eating
- Dynorphins act on kappa receptors to change how rewarding food feels, promoting binge and compulsive eating.
- Blocking these receptors in animals reduces binge eating and calms withdrawal-like negative feelings.