Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Charles Zuker, PhD, a professor of biochemistry, molecular biophysics and neuroscience at Columbia University and an Investigator with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI).

We explore taste perception and how the brain transforms chemical signals from food into distinct taste experiences. We discuss how these taste signals shape both conscious choices and unconscious behavior, as well as how food preferences can change over time. Additionally, we discuss gut–brain signaling and explain why sugar is especially powerful at driving cravings.

Show notes: go.hubermanlab.com/98yVjnK

Watch more Huberman Lab Essentials: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPNW_gerXa4OGNy1yE-W9IX-tPu-tJa7S&si=a1_sA7rUT-fE0OM5

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*Timestamps*
00:00:00 Charles Zuker
00:00:20 Senses & Perception
00:02:29 Taste, 5 Taste Qualities & Dietary Needs
00:05:49 Taste vs Flavor
00:07:05 Taste Buds; Bitter
00:08:54 Sweet vs Bitter, Sensory Perception from Tongue to Brain
00:11:56 Taste Plasticity & Changing Food Preferences
00:13:22 Taste Modulation; Salt
00:16:17 Gut-Brain Signaling
00:20:50 Sugar Appetite & Gut-Brain Axis; Artificial Sweeteners, Sugar Cravings
00:26:34 Taste & Essential Nutrients; Highly Processed Foods; Brain & Food Choices
00:30:07 Acknowledgements

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