How sugar affects the brain | Nicole Avena

TED Health

When you eat something loaded with sugar, your taste buds, your gut and your brain all take notice. This activation of your reward system is not unlike how bodies process addictive substances such as alcohol or nicotine -- an overload of sugar spikes dopamine levels and leaves you craving more. Nicole Avena explains why sweets and treats should be enjoyed in moderation. (Directed by STK Films, narrated by Michelle Snow, music by Michael Dow.) Stay tuned after the talk to hear our host Shoshana and biochemist Jessie Inchauspé dive into the importance of blood sugar awareness.