Unveiling the Brain's Connection: Stress, Comfort Food, and Emotional Eating

Researchers have identified a brain molecule called Proenkephalin, located in the hypothalamus, that plays a crucial role in triggering comfort food cravings after experiencing stress. By exposing mice to a predator's odor, the study found that this molecule activates neurons associated with high-fat food consumption. The discovery not only provides insights into the mechanisms of emotional eating but also suggests potential therapeutic targets for addressing stress-induced overeating.