FOOD BLISS POINT

Now I know why my wife’s tiramisu takes me to heaven – its literal translation. It triggers my so called bliss point, “the point at which we get the greatest pleasure from sugar, fat or salt.” But at the optimum bliss level, even if we are full, our appetite may continue to be stimulated. This has been demonstrated by new research at Yale University using a magnificent technique known as functional magnetic resonance imaging. It has led someone who ran the powerful US Food and Drug Administration to conclude: “It is time to stop blaming individuals for being overweight or obese … For millions of people, modern food is simply impossible to resist.” The global food industry stands accused of conspiring to make foods such as burgers and ketchup, frappuccinos and chocolate “hyper palatable.” What nonsense. Manufactured food is often extremely good. But most people would still prefer a fine restaurant or simple home cooking. For once I agree with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who said earlier this year: “There should be no doubt that maintaining a healthy weight must be the responsibility of individuals first.” I am grateful for this story to The Sunday Times, which often hits my weekend reading bliss point.