Food can be addictive, much like drugs.

The study points out that food activates the brain in the same pattern that underlies drug addiction. More specifically, both food and drugs stimulate the nucleus accumbens, the region of the brain responsible for controlling dietary rewards and needs.

Researchers infer that this is why some people simply can't diet even though they clearly recognize that the high-sugar foods they consume daily bring no benefit to their bodies.

Dr. Belinda Lennerz stated: "Food is essential for life, but we eat for reasons beyond our daily energy needs. When overeating becomes a pattern, it is hard to break. We can only say that some people are 'addicted' to food. In fact, aside from calories and enjoyment, food may impact the addiction centers in the brain."