Reward processing in food addiction and overeating

Eating behavior is determined by more than just energy needs-the hedonic properties of food play a strong role in food consumption. The current chapter examines the role of reward processing in compulsive eating and “food addiction.” Specifically, the chapter reviews reward processing studies in food addiction as well as findings in populations with binge eating disorder (BED) and obesity. Behavioral and neurobiological studies implicate frontostriatal alterations in disordered eating behaviors. Prospective studies are needed to better assess the development of food addiction, BED, and obesity and identify meaningful subgroups based on biobehavioral differences.