By: Linda Vongkhamchanh

Apr 28, 2009

…Well, not really. But, recent research by former Food and Drug Administration commissioner Dr. David Kessler reveals the latest breakthrough on what could be a factor fueling the obesity epidemic. It’s something he calls “conditioned hypereating.” This means that your brain is telling you to eat high-sugar, high-fat foods even when you’re not hungry. Ah, that explains yesterday’s unbearable craving for a solid dark chocolate bar. I’m glad it’s just not me.

In Dr. Kessler’s book, The End of Overeating, he explains that he too is a victim of overindulgence and overeating. If the doc has the urge, then I surely don’t feel too guilty for my gluttonous behavior at around 4 PM everyday. Dr. Kessler explains that it is difficult for people to resist foods high in sugar, fat and salt because these foods affect your brain’s “pleasure-sensing spot” or dopamine pathway (to get technical) just like drugs and alcohol do. Although, you can’t really be addicted to cookies, you might keep on wanting and wanting it until you break and you indulge… just one more time, right? Dr. Kessler estimates that up to 70 million people have some degree of conditioned hypereating.

Don’t just binge eat donuts now and think it’s a lost cause. The solution is to teach yourself how to overcome your desires by training your brain. Avoid the places and things that remind you of a certain food that you just can’t resist. This simple technique helps rewire you sugar-lovin’ brain to start fresh and eat healthier. Although, it is difficult when basically everything you encounter each day is a marketing tactic to get you to eat "bad" foods. Even if it is a “healthier version”, a light Frappucino is still a Frappucino and it ultimately doesn’t satiate your desire for a sweet and creamy drink. Instead, choose a healthy food that will. Over time, your “trained” brain will choose (and want) the healthier food.

Conditioned hypereating doesn’t just affect obese people—it’s a condition that anyone can have. Yes, even the skinny minnies deal with this. We’re all on the same sugar-high. Cookies, I will conquer you one day.

For more information on The End of Overeating, visit Amazon.com.