The addictive potential and the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the consumption of hyperpalatable foods: Does food addiction exist?

Czech version

Authors: Eva Klanduchová
Authors‘ workplace: Ústav všeobecnej psychológie, Fakulta psychológie Paneurópskej vysokej školy, n. o, Bratislava
Published in: Diab Obez 2025; 25(1): 31-36
Category: Reviews

Overview

The neurobiological mechanisms underlying the consumption of hyperpalatable foods provide a plausible empirical basis for supporting the validity of the Food Addiction construct. This represents a significant advancement in understanding the etiology of obesity and conveys a major opportunity for the development of more complex diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Integrating the food addiction concept into clinical practice would allow for more effective and targeted personalized treatment interventions. The addictive potential of hyperpalatable foods needs to be addressed at the population level as well, through targeted policies and regulation, like the approach taken with tobacco and alcohol products.

Keywords:

obesity – food addiction – hedonic eating – hyperpalatability

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