Obesity explained by withdrawal syndrome

Study looks at similarities between food over consumption and drug dependence

A study by Stephanie Fulton of the Department of Pharmacology has put forth the possibility that food over consumption and drug dependence share similar neurobiological mechanisms. Published in September 2006 in Neuron, this study will help to better understand obesity.

When drug addicts consume cocaine or alcohol they activate the dopaminergic system of the nervous system.

“Heroin, cocaine, amphetamines and alcohol stimulate the central nervous system by increasing dopamine signals in the brain. It’s one of the mechanisms which provide the sensation of satisfaction,” explains Mrs. Fulton. “Although these different drugs have different physiological and psychological effects, they all leave a trace in the brain, like that of a long term memory.”

According to Mrs. Fulton addiction isn’t only caused by the product but by the experience the product provides. “Drug addiction develops following repeated consumption,” she says. “In the long run, this action changes the functioning of the system. A withdrawal syndrome is created. The deprivation associated to a pleasant memory of satisfaction creates the motivation to repeat the behaviour.”

Her work on obese mice has led her to believe that a link exists between the above research and compulsive eating. Just like drug addicts, there could be a correlation between food dependency and obesity.

In 1994 a research team at Rockfeller University in New York discovered the ob gene and the hormone it produces, leptine. Since then, obesity has been the subject of many studies. “We have known for a long time that psycho affective factors such as psychological stress and anxiety, can effect dietary behaviour,” explains Mrs. Fulton. “As well as smell, taste and the appearance of food can incite people to eat more.”

Université de Montréal