It's a matter of neurobiology. Research reveals why we overeat—and it's hard to beat

 The study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, was conducted by researchers at the Monell Center for Chemical Sensing in Philadelphia. They discovered that the vagus nerve, which connects the intestine to the brain, transmits information about fats and sugars to the brain through separate neural pathways, informs UAINFO.org from the NV.ua link.

"These separate pathways appear to play a key role in increasing food cravings, particularly for fatty and sweet foods," said study author Guillaume de Lartigue, Ph.D., a neuroscientist at Monell.

The researchers used a new cutting-edge neuroscience technology to directly manipulate fat or sugar neurons in the vagus nerve system of mice. They found that both types of neurons trigger the release of dopamine in the brain's reward center. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.

The researchers also found that the activation of both the fat and sugar chains creates a synergy similar to a "double whammy in the brain." The combination of fat and sugar led to a significantly greater release of dopamine, which ultimately caused the mice to overeat.

Although the results need to be studied more in humans, the findings are important for ongoing weight-related research, as well as treatments such as semaglutide and tirzepatide.

"These studies show that cravings for fatty and sweet foods have a neurobiological basis," said Hans-Rudolf Bertu, Ph.D., professor of neurobiology and nutrition at Louisiana State University's Pennington Biomedical Research Center. "They may also lead to the development of new treatments for obesity and related diseases."

The researchers say their work may help explain why sticking to a diet can be so difficult. The human brain is most likely to seek out combinations high in fat and sugar, despite conscious efforts to reduce them.

"Understanding these mechanisms can help us develop new strategies to overcome cravings for fatty and sweet foods," de Lartigue said.

What else do the experts say?

Nicholas Betley, Ph.D., associate professor of biology at the University of Pennsylvania: “These studies may lead to the development of new treatments for obesity and related diseases. They can also help us understand why dieting can be so difficult."

Alexandra DiFelicantonio, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and associate professor at the Fralin Institute for Biomedical Research at Virginia Tech Carilion: “These studies provide new evidence that the gut-brain axis plays an important role in regulating eating behavior and food choices. They may also help us develop new strategies to overcome cravings for fatty and sweet foods."

Scott Kanoski, Ph.D., co-director of the University of Southern California Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute and president of the Society for the Study of Eating Behaviors: "These studies show that the brain-gut connection plays an important role in cognitive processes and brain health. They may also help us develop new treatments for obesity and related diseases."

This article contains general information of a reference nature and should not be considered as an alternative to the recommendations of a doctor. If you are concerned about your health, consult your doctor.