Studying overeating as an addiction

A recent Newsday story looks at overeating from a neurological perspective, likening it to other forms of addiction. One study cited in the article found that drug abusers and overeaters had similarly low numbers of dopamine receptors, which are partly responsible for feelings of satisfaction and fullness. Other studies have found that some obese people's brain chemistry contributes to heightened feelings of pleasure from food. Experts cited in the article are hesitant to formally categorize overeating as an addiction, however. Still, many feel that examining it from that angle may help develop more effective treatment methods.