The pleasure/pain balance hinges on the amount of dopamine that is readily available for release in the system. Pursuing drugs or an activity that leads to huge increases in dopamine can deplete the readily releasable pool, resulting in addiction.
The absolute level of dopamine caused by ingesting sugar is not as high as that caused by smoking crack, but the rate of dopamine increase over time has a profound effect on behavior. Lower glycemic index sweet foods or adjusting them with fiber or fat might be a better option to satisfy sweet cravings.
Learn about the significant impact of the dopamine molecule on our desire to pursue rewarding experiences, such as food, sex, and even online activities. The book "The Molecule of More" provides insight into the fascinating effects of dopamine in the brain.
Addiction is defined as a progressive narrowing of the things that bring pleasure, leading to a reduction in dopamine release. Treating addiction involves expanding the things that bring a person belief and appreciation.
The subjective aspects of the knowledge of the benefits of fasting can serve as reinforcing dopamine amplifying aspects to fasting, and the longer you restrict yourself from rewarding activities, the greater dopamine experience when the dopamine is finally released because of an upregulation of the receptors for dopamine.