Your Qs: Is sugar actually addictive?

You asked, we answered.

I've seen studies that say sugar is addictive - is this true?

Few household ingredients cause robust debate like sugar does. Research shows that sweet foods and drinks are tempting because sugar triggers the brain's mesolimbic dopamine system. This is the same system that enables cravings and addiction, a system that drives you to go back for more. That's because dopamine is released, which makes you feel good. So, the more often you eat sugar, the more you flip the dopamine switch.

When we try to cut out large amounts of sugar from our diets, it can lead to withdrawal - another reason sugar has been labeled 'addictive'. In fact, testing on rodents has some researchers claiming that sugar is as addictive as abusive drugs, but others argue the rodent trials aren't comparable to the human experience and sugar doesn't result in the damaging abuse that other substances do. But they do agree too much sugar isn't good for us, whether it's addictive or not.

That's not to say you should give up all of the sweet stuff in life; moderation is key. Instead, try replacing processed sugar with alternatives like honey or fruits such as berries when the craving strikes.

Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.

Disclaimer:
The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.