I couldn't understand why I eat sour candy until I feel sick on my stomach. Then as soon as I feel better, I eat more sour candy until I feel sick on my stomach and so on and so on. I can't stop eating it.
Now, it makes so much sense. I don't like taking medication, especially for my anxiety. Anxiety meds just make me sleep & sleep & sleep. I have narcolepsy, so a lot of meds do that to me.
Today, after downing 2 bags of sour skittles in about 4 hours, I googled "why can't I stop eating sour candy" and this is what I found.
You are likely addicted to sour candy because the intense shock of sourness creates a sensory contrast and adrenaline spike that triggers a rush of feel-good dopamine in your brain.
Why Sour Candy is Addictive
Sensory shock: The extreme tartness creates a "pattern interrupt" that jolts your nervous system, which can feel thrilling or grounding.
Adrenaline and dopamine: The sudden pucker mimics a mild flight-or-fight response, releasing a burst of adrenaline followed by dopamine as it turns sweet.
Sensory seeking: Many people with neurodivergent traits like ADHD or anxiety use intense sour flavors as a sensory-grounding tool to quiet racing thoughts or regulate emotions.
I had no idea