FIGURE 1.
Schematic representation of some criteria used to classify substances of abuse as described by Koob and Le Moal.42 We have applied these criteria to the study of food addiction. Limited daily access to a sugar solution leads to bingeing and ensuing opiate-like withdrawal when animals are administered naloxone or food deprived. After a period of sugar abstinence, these animals show signs of craving, as measured by increased responding for sugar or sugar-associated cues. Cross-sensitization between sugar and drugs of abuse is shown by hyperactivity in response to a low dose of a psychostimulant and by avidity for alcohol.