If you’re too full to take another bite of dinner, but can make room for dessert, blame your brain. That’s right, your brain is playing tricks on you, sort of. A new study published in the journal Science reveals exactly what happens to our bodies when our so-called “dessert stomach” kicks in, even when we’re not hungry. The culprit is a group of neurons called pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons, found in the brain’s arcuate nucleus — the same area that regulates hunger and fullness. Normally, these neurons signal that you’re full and should stop eating. However, when you’re stuffed, they suddenly switch gears and trigger sugar cravings instead. That proves that our love for dessert isn’t just about habit, taste, lack of willpower, or that inner voice whispering, “Treat yourself.” Nope, it’s biology. The opioid release dials up your sugar cravings, making dessert seem essential. Sugar relaxes the stomach, increasing its capacity. As a result, not only do you crave dessert but your stomach also physically accommodates more of it, making it easier to overindulge. Fear not, there’s always a way around obstacles. In this case, doctors suggest that you do one of the following:
- • Order fruit instead — Fruit still has sugar, but a lot less of it and, therefore, less calories.
- • Take a walk — Walking increases your glucose metabolism and reduces cravings.
- • Wait 10 minutes — Cravings will normally pass if you give yourself time to digest and let your brain catch up to your stomach.
- • Drink water or tea — A warm drink can help signal your brain that the meal is over.
- • Brush your teeth — Minty flavors suppress the urge for something sweet.
- • Share a dessert — If you simply can’t resist, split it with a friend to enjoy the taste without overindulging.
- • Skip processed desserts — Some artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and sweeteners have been linked to increased consumption. Instead, go for a homemade dessert or something that’s minimally processed.
- • Indulge on occasion — Depriving yourself completely can lead to stronger cravings later. Just be mindful of portion control.
