MIT scientists discover neurons that light up when we see images of food

BOSTON -- Most of us perk up when we see a fresh batch of French fries or a big slice of chocolate cake, but why?  Local researchers have some answers.

MIT scientists have discovered a population of neurons in the brain that light up whenever we see images of food. The region is located near neurons that respond to faces, bodies, places, and words, which they say may help explain why food isn't just fuel for our bodies but plays such a powerful role in cultural identity, religious practices, and social interactions.  

The researchers now want to explore how people's responses to certain foods might differ depending on their personal preferences or past experiences.

Mallika Marshall, MD

Mallika Marshall, MD is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and physician who has served as the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. A practicing physician Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Dr. Marshall serves on staff at Harvard Medical School and practices at Massachusetts General Hospital at the MGH Chelsea Urgent Care and the MGH Revere Health Center, where she is currently working on the frontlines caring for patients with COVID-19. She is also a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications (HHP), the publishing division of Harvard Medical School.

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