Eyes On - Is Your Favorite Snack Addictive on Purpose? The Truth About the 'Bliss Point' and Food Cravings

In this mind-blowing episode of Uncover Your Eyes, Dr. Meenal Agarwal breaks down a term you've probably never heard of—but experience every day: the bliss point. From Doritos and potato chips to Starbucks Frappuccinos and Frosted Flakes, our food is engineered to be addictive. Dr. Meenal dives deep into how food companies tap into your brain’s reward system using the perfect balance of sugar, fat, and salt to keep you craving more. If you’ve ever wondered why you can’t eat just one chip or why your Netflix binge isn’t complete without snacks, this episode explains it all—and gives you the awareness you need to take back control.

 

Key Timestamps:

• (00:00) Introduction: Why are we addicted to snacks and sweets? The surprising science behind the "bliss point"
• (00:42) What is the bliss point? How food companies engineer it to maximize pleasure
• (01:29) Junk foods that hit the bliss point: chips, chocolate, fried chicken, soda, and more
• (03:30) How fat, sugar, and salt work together to hijack your taste buds and reward system
• (05:01) What happens in your brain: dopamine, reward circuits, and behavioral feedback loops
• (06:16) Potato chips and the perfect feedback loop: why you can’t stop at one
• (07:11) How this affects public health: diabetes, obesity, and a rise in chronic illness
• (07:42) Final thoughts: How awareness helps you take back control of your cravings

 

Key Takeaways:

• The Bliss Point Is Real – Food is scientifically designed to be irresistible by hitting the ideal combo of salt, fat, and sugar.
• You’re Not Lacking Willpower – Cravings are often the result of neurological feedback loops, not personal weakness.
• Awareness Is the First Step – Understanding how foods are engineered helps you make more intentional choices.
• Your Brain’s Reward System Is Targeted – Dopamine and sensory triggers are intentionally manipulated by food manufacturers.
• Public Health Impact – These engineered foods contribute to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and chronic disease.

 

Resources & Links:

• Follow Dr. Meenal Agarwal on Instagram: @dr.meenalagarwal
• Subscribe to Uncover Your Eyes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube
• Recommended Reading: “The End of Overeating” by David Kessler (former FDA Commissioner)

 

Bio:

Dr. Meenal Agarwal is an optometrist, wellness educator, and mother, passionate about helping people understand the science behind their health choices. Through her podcast Uncover Your Eyes, she empowers listeners to look beyond the surface, challenge food myths, and take intentional steps toward healthier living.