Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
Alcoholism may increase risk of obesity
By Staff Writer
Researchers believe that a possible link between alcoholism and obesity may be due to certain changes in food ingredients and an increase in calories.
A team of researchers analyzed data from two large surveys on alcoholism from the last two decades. They found that much of today's foods contain more calories than what people ate in the 1970s and 1980s.
In addition, many of these foods include calories from a combination of sugar, salt and fat. These ingredients appeal to the brain's reward centers. Drugs and alcohol stimulate the brain in a similar way. This led researchers from the University of Washington in St. Louis to believe that individuals with a predisposition to addiction may be more likely to consume food which produces a similar effect.
Research also led those behind the study to believe that alcoholism puts individuals at a higher risk for obesity. It was found that the association between a family history of alcoholism and obesity risk had become more apparent in recent years.
The results of the study have led the researchers to suggest more communication between those who study alcohol addiction and obesity researchers. This dialogue may lead to improved treatment for individuals with one or both of the disorders.
Individuals who feel they have grown reliant on alcohol may want to seek substance abuse help.
