How sugar affects the brain - Nicole Avena
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TEDEd Animation
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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.
Sugar consumption causes distinct changes to the brain’s reward system. What other stimuli activate this system and what are similar behaviors seen between them and sugar overconsumption?
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Meet The Creators
- Educator Nicole Avena
- Director Chris Boyle
- Composer Michael Dow
- Narrator Michelle Snow
