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How Sugar Affects the Brain

Have you ever wondered why sugar gives you that warm fuzzy feeling? Do you crave sweet treats? Nicole Avena explains how sugar affects the brain and why it should be enjoyed in moderation in this TED-Ed Original lesson.

Sugar on scoop on wooden board with sugar cubes

Eating sugar activates a rewards system and releases dopamine in your body giving you a warm fuzzy feeling. In this video Nicole explains how our brains have evolved to notice new and special tastes to determine if food has gone bad and to create a desire to eat a variety of foods with an array of nutrition. Sugar however sparks a rewarding feeling every time you eat it making it very addictive and over activates your rewards system making it bad if you too much.

Click here to view this informative TED-Ed Original lesson.

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