Neuroscience of overeating: Animal study provides insight
Written by James Kingsland on February 23, 2021 — Fact checked by Rita Ponce, Ph.D.
Scientists identify a part of the brain that is important for the initial stages of learning to seek food. David Sacks/Getty Images
Overweight and obesity increase the risk of a wide range of illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some types of cancer.
Research in rats has identified a part of the brain involved in the early stages of learning to seek out and eat food when presented with specific cues.
Insights into how the brain develops unhealthy eating habits could inspire new ways to reduce overeating.