The science behind getting addicted to sugar. Studies have shown that sugar causes the brain to release dopamine, a chemical only released when we’re presented with a rewarding stimulus. Because dopamine makes us feel good, we’re more likely to seek out the stimuli that triggers it; sugar, in particular, provides dopamine highs even more intense than that caused by cocaine. And like drugs, we experience withdrawal symptoms — like depression, anxiety, and cravings — when we reduce our sugar intake. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here
Merv
February 1, 2023
