By Erewunmi Peace

A recent statement by a health expert has sparked debates online, claiming that refined sugar is more addictive than cocaine. But is this really true? Let’s break down what science says about sugar, addiction, and why experts are concerned about excessive sugar intake.

The Claim:
Professor Alero Roberts, an Associate Professor of Public Health at LUTH, recently suggested that refined sugar can be more addictive than cocaine. According to her, people often experience withdrawal-like symptoms—such as irritability and headaches—when they stop taking sugar for a few days.

What Science Says:
Studies on animals have shown that sugar can trigger addiction-like behaviors, including cravings, bingeing, and withdrawal symptoms. In fact, some experiments found that rats preferred sweet substances over cocaine when given a choice.

However, human studies tell a different story. While sugar activates the brain’s reward system—similar to addictive substances—it does not fully meet the criteria for drug addiction. Experts argue that sugar’s effects are far weaker than cocaine and do not cause the same level of dependency or withdrawal.

Why Experts Still Warn Against Sugar:
Even though sugar may not be “as addictive as cocaine,” health experts agree that too much sugar is harmful. High sugar consumption is linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. The World Health Organization recommends reducing added sugar intake to less than 10% of total daily calories.

The claim that refined sugar is more addictive than cocaine is an overstatement. While sugar can be habit-forming and harmful when overconsumed, it does not compare to the potency and risks of hard drugs like cocaine. Still, reducing sugar intake is essential for better health.