Every once in a while, you see yourself absolutely clearly.

Today, when I checked out Newsday's article entitled "Wired to overeat?", I was reminded of what I truly am: A food addict.

The article discusses how researchers are probing food addiction, after finding similarities in the circuitry of very large people and people who are addicted to drugs.

Apparently, both groups have fewer dopamine D2 receptors in their brains, which "can lead to an impaired ability to feel satisfied or to experience the sensation of having enough."

This is a battle many of us larger folks face every day. One bite is never, ever enough. We think food, breathe food, live food.

At least one person quoted found lasting help by going into a recovery program. However, most insurance companies won't pay for recovery for weight loss. Others coped by eliminating sugar and keeping strict track of their diets.

Most of us are still looking for that magic bullet that will help us lose weight and keep it off. But maybe this research is a sign that obesity will finally be treated as a scientific matter and not just a lack of willpower.

Keep your fingers crossed!

-- Amanda Barrett