The Effect of Food Composition and Behavior on Neurobiological Response to Food: a Review of Recent Research

Abstract

Purpose of review: Controversy surrounds the construct of food addiction. The current review examines neurobiological evidence for the existence of food addiction as a valid diagnosis.

Recent findings: Recent neuroimaging studies suggest significant overlap in the areas of the brain that are activated in relation to both food and drug addiction. Specifically, areas of the brain implicated in executive functioning (e.g., attention, planning, decision-making, inhibition), pleasure and the experience of reward, and sensory input and motor functioning display increased activation among individuals with symptoms of both food and drug addiction. Proposed symptoms of food addiction mirror those comprising other substance use disorder diagnoses, with similar psychological and behavioral sequelae. Results of neuroimaging studies suggest significant overlap in the areas of the brain that are activated in relation to both food and drug addiction, providing support for continued research into the construct of food addiction.

Keywords: Addictive disorders; Binge eating; Compulsive eating; Craving; Eating behavior; Food addiction; Highly palatable foods; Highly processed foods; Neurobiological effects; Neuroimaging; Nutrition; Reward.