Always Eat Sweet Food After Eating? Scientists Explain The Reason

Illustration of sweet foods. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Do you often feel like enjoying sweet foods after big meals? This is generally experienced by many people, especially at night.

This desire is not just a habit, there is a scientific reason behind it. When it comes to limiting sugar intake, the brain can feel 'lossed' even though the body does not lack nutrients.

This condition is known as perceived deliberation, which causes the brain to have sweet foods. The brain feels there are things that are lacking so they ask for more food.

"Crving is a lesson. If the brain feels something is being held, it will ask for more," said professor of nutrition, Anne VanBeber, PhD, RD, quoted from Very Well Health, on Thursday, September 11, 2025.

Sweet foods contain sugar, which can trigger the release of the hormone serotonin and dopamine, which makes feelings happier. It's also what makes people want sweet foods after a big meal, to add happiness.

"That's why many people are looking for sweet ones at the end of their meal, because physically it does trigger joy," he said.

Not only that, the desire to eat sweet can also arise because the tongue looks for a sensation of a different taste, after eating big with a savory and salty taste. This condition is called sensory-specific satity.

We can reduce it by presenting sweet, acidic, bitter, salty, and umami flavors in one meal. As a result, less calories enter and more saturation comes faster," he explained.

However, keep in mind that the happy effect is only temporary. Excessive sugar consumption can actually reduce dopamine levels in the long term.

If you want to eat sweet after a big meal, it is recommended to replace the high- sugar dessert with fresh fruit. You can also try other alternatives such as hot chocolate with low-fat milk, blended frozen berries, or yogurt to make it healthier.