Exploring the Relationship Between Sugar Consumption and Drug Addiction: A Conceptual Review

Introduction: Recent neurobiological studies have indicated that excessive sugar consumption may activate the same reward pathways in the brain—particularly the dopaminergic system—as addictive substances such as cocaine or opioids. This overlap has raised concerns about whether high sugar intake can contribute to addiction-like behaviors and potentially increase vulnerability to substance use disorders. This paper aims to explore the relationship between sugar intake and drug addiction from behavioral, psychological, and neurological perspectives. Methodology: This study adopts a qualitative review approach by systematically analyzing existing literature. A total of ۳۰ peer-reviewed articles published between ۲۰۰۰ and ۲۰۲۴ were selected from databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The articles focused on sugar’s impact on the brain's reward system, behavioral addiction patterns, and its potential connection with substance abuse. Findings: Findings from both animal and human studies suggest that sugar can overstimulate dopamine and opioid receptors in the brain, similarly to addictive drugs. Individuals in recovery from substance use disorders often report intense cravings for sweets, which may serve as a compensatory mechanism for reduced dopamine activity. Furthermore, early-life exposure to high sugar intake may increase impulsivity and sensitivity to rewards, potentially elevating the risk of substance abuse in adulthood. Conclusion: The reviewed evidence highlights a significant overlap between sugar consumption and addiction-related neurobiological mechanisms. Recognizing this relationship may contribute to better prevention and treatment strategies for both dietary and substance-related addictions. Future research should focus on longitudinal and clinical studies to clarify causality and therapeutic implications.

کلیدواژه ها:

Sugar addiction ، brain reward system ، dopamine ، substance use disorder ، addictive behavior ، nutrition and addiction