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Serving Up Science

How Junk Food Hijacks Your Brain | Serving Up Science

Season 3 Episode 301 | 6m 32s

Why are we drawn to fatty, sugary, and salty snacks and drinks? We’re putting junk food under the microscope to explore the science behind our affinity for processed foods that pack a lot of calories and have little nutritional value. When we eat foods that contain lots of fat and sugar, it's the natural chemical dopamine that gives us a rush of elation and desire for more.

Aired: 11/18/22
Extras
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Episode: S5 E1 | 5:42
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Unearth the history of insect eating and explore the protein-packed world of insects.
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Sell By, Best By? Or Just Bye-Bye? Decoding Food Expiration
Uncover the secrets behind "sell by," "best by," and "use by" food date labels.
Episode: S4 E5 | 5:01
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Serving Up Science
Can Soil Make or Break Our Food Future?
Unearth the world beneath our feet and soil's vital role in our food system.
Episode: S4 E4 | 6:52
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Sugar and Hyperactivity: What Does Research Say?
Get ready to reevaluate everything you thought you knew about sugar and hyperactivity.
Episode: S4 E3 | 7:30
Watch • 4:43
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Discover the Truth Behind Egg Labels and the differences between them all.
Episode: S4 E1 | 4:43
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Watch • 5:34
Serving Up Science
Why Cast Iron Skillets Last Forever (And How to Use Them Right!)
Is a cast iron skillet really the best kitchen tool, or is it just a heavy hassle?
Episode: S5 E5 | 5:34
Watch • 6:12
Serving Up Science
Peppers & Pain: The Spicy Science
Ever wondered why spicy foods make your mouth feel like it's on fire?
Episode: S5 E4 | 6:12
Watch • 5:39
Serving Up Science
What's the Best Meat to Eat?
Ever wondered what meat is truly the best for your your health and the planet?
Episode: S5 E3 | 5:39
Watch • 6:45
Serving Up Science
Gas vs Induction Stoves : The Heated Debate
Gas stoves are a staple in many kitchens, but a cleaner alternative could be induction cooktops.
Episode: S5 E2 | 6:45
Watch • 5:42
Serving Up Science
Why Does Water Taste Different?
Bottled, tap, or purified—water has its own unique flavor! But why?
Episode: S5 E1 | 5:42
Watch • 8:52
Serving Up Science
Dare to Taste Bugs? Good for You, Great for the World.
Unearth the history of insect eating and explore the protein-packed world of insects.
Episode: S4 E2 | 8:52
Watch • 5:01
Serving Up Science
Sell By, Best By? Or Just Bye-Bye? Decoding Food Expiration
Uncover the secrets behind "sell by," "best by," and "use by" food date labels.
Episode: S4 E5 | 5:01
Watch • 6:52
Serving Up Science
Can Soil Make or Break Our Food Future?
Unearth the world beneath our feet and soil's vital role in our food system.
Episode: S4 E4 | 6:52
Watch • 7:30
Serving Up Science
Sugar and Hyperactivity: What Does Research Say?
Get ready to reevaluate everything you thought you knew about sugar and hyperactivity.
Episode: S4 E3 | 7:30
Watch • 4:43
Serving Up Science
Does it really matter what eggs you buy?
Discover the Truth Behind Egg Labels and the differences between them all.
Episode: S4 E1 | 4:43