When consuming fatty and calorie-dense foods, the brain releases dopamine into the blood. This is an important hormone for pleasure. To repeat the joy, people try to buy fatty foods again and again. Additionally, the love for fatty foods is also related to the evolution of humanity.
French fries, meat soup, ice cream, pancakes, and pastries have been part of many people's menus since childhood. What is the reason for this, why do people love fatty foods more? This question was answered by endocrinologist and nutritionist Darya Khaykina in an interview with "Gazeta.ru".
“Remember your favorite dish. It might be a burger with dripping fat or a pizza that tickles the nose with its aroma, or it could be something else. How do you feel right now? Has your mood lifted, do you feel comfort and lightness inside? The thing is, when you consume fatty and calorie-dense food, your brain releases dopamine into the blood – this is the neuromediator responsible for pleasure. Dopamine creates that sensation of taste and encourages us to repeat that action again and again. This is how the addiction to fats forms,” Khaykina explained.
According to her, this process is related to evolution. Our ancestors lived in harsh conditions, so they needed a lot of energy. Energy is obtained from calories. Thus, our ancestors preferred fatty and calorie-dense products.
“The evolution that has formed over thousands of years has also passed on to us. The idea of 'searching for fatty food' has been ingrained in our brains. When we see a fatty product, the brain sends a signal to the whole organism that everything is in place, and enough calories have been found to sustain life,” the specialist explained.
She also states, based on scientific research, that the human brain remembers not only the taste of fatty foods but also their caloric content. When a person consumes highly caloric food, the brain creates a strong connection between the taste of that food and its energy. This becomes a habit and influences food choices over time.
“Besides the strong stimulation related to dopamine, fats are a significant factor that enhances flavor. Fat activates the receptors on the tongue and in the mouth, making the taste even more delicious. As a result, we derive much more pleasure from food. Additionally, cultural factors also play an important role. Slavic cuisine has historically been rich in fatty foods like cream, smoked fat (salo), and butter. These flavors are formed from childhood and influence our eating habits throughout our lives,” the nutritionist added.
When discussing how to control the craving for fatty foods, the doctor reminded that completely eliminating fats is incorrect. Because they are necessary for the normal functioning of the body, including hormone synthesis and brain health.
“Focus on healthy fats: fish, nuts, avocado, olive oil. Reduce the intake of trans fats and saturated fats (fast food, store-bought pastries). Try to combine fats with proteins and fibers – this will reduce appetite and prevent overeating,” she said.
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