Dr. Nicole Avena is a neuroscientist, researcher, author, and speaker who has spent years studying nutrition and the brain chemistry of the reward system. She is a pioneer in the field of food addiction.
In functional medicine, we often talk about the importance of behavior and lifestyle changes to optimize health. But, how much of this is within our control? On today’s episode, Dr. Avena discusses the adverse effects of sugar on eating behaviors and the brain’s role in decision-making.   
Today on The Lab Report:

3:00 Meet Dr. Nicole Avena and learn why she focuses on nutrition and food addiction
7:00 How sugar influences the brain chemistry of the reward system
10:20 Processed foods and added sugar
13:35 Reading nutrition labels and USDA recommendations
16:30 Long term effects of sugar on children
18:30 Advice for parents about introducing sugar in the diet
21:55 The Fireball

 
Additional Resources:
Dr. Nicole Avena's website
TED talk - How Sugar Affects the Brain
Why Diets Fail
What to Feed Your Baby and Toddler
What to Eat When You're Pregnant
Hedonic Eating: How the Pleasure of Food Affects Our Brains and Behavior
 
Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report
Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review.
Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net.
And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing.
Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.