Can't stop eating junk food? Blame your BRAIN for allowing lapses in self-control

Overindulging on junk food could be partly caused by lapses in the part of the brain responsible for control, a new study has revealed.

Canadian researchers found dampening the operation of a the 'dorsolateral prefrontal cortex' led to people reporting more food cravings for high-calorie foods and eating more junk food during a taste test.

The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is involved with the brain's executive functions, which allow them to engage voluntary control over their behaviour.

This part of the brain helps to keep automatic, or knee-jerk reactions, such as food cravings, in check.

Previous studies have shown that boosting activity in the prefrontal cortex reduces cravings for unhealthy foods.

But this is the first study to show that reducing its activity levels in this area of the brain, or 'taking it offline' leads to more cravings and more snacking.

However, the researchers advised that taking exercise, avoiding alcohol and getting a good night's sleep could strengthen this area of the brain, allowing people to overcome cravings and the temptation to eat more easily.