Study says people addicted to sugar should be treated just like drug abusers

(NaturalHealth365) Most of us are aware of the draw and allure of foods that are high in sugar. Whether you have a weakness for sugary drinks or your downfall is cakes, pies or cookies, it turns out that there’s a scientific reason why you find these sugary foods so hard to resist. (And, knowing why is the ‘key’ to breaking the addiction)

Scientists have now proven that the effects of glucose on the body are tantamount to an addiction – just like an addiction to cocaine, tobacco, morphine or any other habit-forming drug.

Addictive effects of sugar similar to cocaine – actually worse

An Australian study recently confirmed the effects of a sugary addiction as being similar to drugs such as opiates. As a result of their findings, they believe a ‘sweet’ addiction should be treated just like any other drug addiction. They also found that there is a phase of withdrawal from sugary foods that’s not unlike what occurs when someone quits drugs “cold turkey.”

More specifically, sugar affects the brain not unlike cocaine does, say researchers. In fact, some research indicates that it could be even more addictive than cocaine. The study out of Queensland University of Technology found that an excess of glucose increases dopamine levels in the brain just like cocaine does.

Over time, just like cocaine, ingesting sugary foods – on a regular basis – can lead to a drop in baseline dopamine levels. Consequently, those addicted to sweets will need more and more sugary foods in order to achieve the same dopamine rewards and avoid a feeling of depression. (it’s a vicious cycle)

Excess sugar consumption already linked with diabetes and obesity

A separate study conducted by the same researchers found chronic sucrose exposure caused eating disorders and other behavior changes. One of the researchers, neuroscientist Professor Selena Bartlett of the Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, believes that medications effective in treating nicotine addiction could also be helpful in treating sugar addiction.

The effects of sugar on the body include weight gain, obesity, high blood sugar and diabetes. However, there is a psychological component to sugar consumption in that it disrupts brain chemistry, mood, motivation, impulse control and the brain’s reward center.

But, wait, there’s more you need to know…

Effects of sugar on the body confirmed as biochemical

These recent findings contradict a 2014 Edinburgh University study that found sugar addiction was psychological, not biochemical. However, other animal studies have shown that rats addicted to cocaine (administered via an IV) almost always switched to sugar instead if it was offered to them.

These studies confirm what many of us have suspected all along – that sugar is highly addictive. The study authors hope the new data will pave the way for treatments and solutions to assist those with a sweet tooth in overcoming the addictive component of sugar’s grip.

Editor’s note: There is a natural way to break your sugar addiction. All the information you could possible need can be found at the Sweet Freedom Summit – which features 28 top experts on nutrition and overcoming sugar addictions.

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References:

https://www.qut.edu.au/news/news?news-id=103307

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/sugar-has-similar-effect-on-brain-as-cocaine-a6980336.html