Tag: Food reward system

Research using positron emission tomography has shown that consuming both palatable and non-palatable food consistently triggers the release of endogenous opioids in the brain. This demonstrates a clear scientific basis for how and why food affects opioid receptors, influencing appetite, reward, and potentially leading to compulsive eating patterns.

According to research, the human brain consumes 20% of the body's energy while at rest, fueling a primal need to seek calorie-dense sustenance. This evolutionary demand is a core reason why food is so rewarding, triggering a complex interplay of brain chemistry, sensory perception, and psychological conditioning that makes certain foods irresistible.

An estimated 15-20% of the general population may meet the diagnostic cut-off for 'food addiction,' a phenomenon with clear parallels to substance dependency. The undeniable appeal of chicken salt, a unique savory seasoning, can be traced back to this same biological reward system, as its flavor profile is meticulously engineered to trigger cravings that keep you coming back for more.