Dr. Nicole Avena is a neuroscientist, researcher, author, and speaker who has spent years studying nutrition and the brain chemistry of the reward system. She is a pioneer in the field of food addiction.

In functional medicine, we often talk about the importance of behavior and lifestyle changes to optimize health. But, how much of this is within our control? On today’s episode, Dr. Avena discusses the adverse effects of sugar on eating behaviors and the brain’s role in decision-making.   

Today on The Lab Report:

• 3:00 Meet Dr. Nicole Avena and learn why she focuses on nutrition and food addiction
• 7:00 How sugar influences the brain chemistry of the reward system
• 10:20 Processed foods and added sugar
• 13:35 Reading nutrition labels and USDA recommendations
• 16:30 Long term effects of sugar on children
• 18:30 Advice for parents about introducing sugar in the diet
• 21:55 The Fireball

 

Additional Resources:

Dr. Nicole Avena's website

TED talk - How Sugar Affects the Brain

Why Diets Fail

What to Feed Your Baby and Toddler

What to Eat When You're Pregnant

Hedonic Eating: How the Pleasure of Food Affects Our Brains and Behavior

 

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