Food and Behaviour Research

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Neuroscience of Reward: Implications for Food Addiction and Nutrition Policy

Horman T and Leri F. (2016)  J Nutr Food Sci  6:6  DOI: 10.4172/2155-9600.1000569 

Web URL: Read the abstract and full article online here via longdom.org

Abstract:

According to the World Health Organization, unhealthy diet is one key contributor to the development of noncommunicable diseases.

The global response to this problem has primarily involved the implementation of nutritional policies intended on raising public awareness, and providing information through nutritional guidelines and product labels.

However, there is experimental evidence suggesting that certain foods may promote addictive processes and consequent unhealthy dietary choices.

This review discusses neurobiological mechanisms of reward involved in the consumption of refined sugars and fats, and the aforementioned indicators of their addictive characteristics.

By acknowledging that these foods can act on brain reward systems to promote excessive or addictive consumption, policy makers may need to address issues of unhealthy diets by considering approaches that target availability, regulations within the food industry, taxation and advertising.

FAB RESEARCH COMMENT:

See the accompanying news article by these researchers:



For more research and news on the issues and controversies concerning 'food addiction', see