this is your brain on... cheetos?
New Research Suggests Ultra-Processed Foods Can Behave Like Addictive Substances
Scientists are even proposing a new mental health diagnosis, "ultra-processed food use disorder," which is characterized by intense cravings and withdrawals.
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The Lede
New research has suggested a link between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and changes to our learning, memory and mental health. Scientists say these foods can behave like addictive substances, affecting the brain's reward system and triggering intense cravings and compulsive consumption — like those seen in addictive substance use. One study found that high-fat, high-sugar diets can change the way brains learn, while another suggested that fatty, sugary breakfasts can negatively impact learning and memory.
Key Details
- Ultra-processed foods are designed to be easily chewed, digested and absorbed quickly. These factors, along with high levels of fat and carbohydrates, enhance the foods' addictive properties.
- Diet can affect one's mental health through effects on the gut microbiome, immune function and neurotransmitter production. The typical American diet, rich in UPFs, leads to a less diverse gut microbiome.
- UPF withdrawal symptoms, like irritability and agitation, are similar to other addictive substance withdrawals.
