Episode #298. Ever wondered why you just can’t stop eating certain foods? Psychologist Tera Fazzino, PhD has the answer. Discover the science of hyper-palatable foods, how they’re making their way into your kitchen, and where they overlap with the tobacco industry in this insight-packed conversation.

You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of why hyper-palatable foods are so prevalent, what to look out for, and how you can better navigate the grocery store. Dr Fazzino also breaks down the policy-level change she would want to see to create a healthier food landscape for everyone.

We cover:

• Introduction to Hyperpalatable Foods and Brain Reward Systems (00:00)
• Exploring Brain Reward Mechanisms Triggered by Hyperpalatable Foods (02:45)
• The Influence of Hyperpalatable Foods on Brain Reward Functions (12:58)
• Food Addiction Explored: A Psychological or Physical Issue? (17:01)
• Identifying Susceptibility Factors in Food Addiction (20:59)
• The Impact of Mental Health on Consuming Hyperpalatable Foods (23:44)
• Comprehensive Analysis of Hyperpalatable Foods and Their Ingredients (26:38)
• The Critical Role of Sodium in Food Palatability Enhancement (30:27)
• Debating the Reduction of Sodium Consumption: Benefits and Challenges (35:26)
• The Intriguing Connection Between the Tobacco and Food Industries (45:52)
• Are All Ultra-Processed Foods Created Equal? A Critical Examination (58:24)
• Identifying Hyperpalatable Foods Commonly Found in Homes (1:04:48)
• Protein's Interplay with Hyperpalatable Foods: A Detailed Study (1:09:39)
• Examining Caloric Intake and Overeating Tendencies with Hyperpalatable Foods (1:16:48)
• Unveiling the Hidden Mechanics of Hyperpalatability: Satisfaction vs. Energy Density (1:19:18)
• Practical Strategies for Managing Hyperpalatable Food Consumption (1:22:59)
• Global Health Impacts of Hyperpalatable Foods: An In-Depth Review (1:28:39)
• Future Trends in Food Policy and Public Health Concerning Hyperpalatable Foods (1:33:18)
• Replacing Sugar with Artificial Non-Nutritive Sweeteners: Pros and Cons (1:41:11)
• Concluding Remarks on Hyperpalatable Foods and Health (1:44:14)

Learn more about Dr Tera Fazzino here, and discover her lab at https://fazzinolab.ku.edu/.

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