Work

Sugar addiction: Science, controversy, and the search for answers

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Rising sugar consumption has prompted debates on whether it constitutes an addiction. This communication critically examines sugar addiction (SA) by outlining key similarities and differences with substance use disorders. Evidence on intoxication, craving, withdrawal, and neurobiology suggests partial overlap but important distinctions, particularly the absence of severe withdrawal, intoxication, and social dysfunction. Human studies remain limited, and current models rely heavily on animal data. SA appears to reflect compulsive behavioral patterns influenced by psychological, environmental, and metabolic factors rather than a classical addiction framework.

Source: Industrial Psychiatry Journal

DOI: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_351_25

Authors: Markanday Sharma, Rishabh Singh, Arka Adhvaryu, Bikram K. Dutta, Ankit Singal

Institutions: Eastern Command Hospital, R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $60