Mind-controlling parasite makes hyena cubs more reckless around lions

Re:Mind-controlling parasite makes hyena cubs more reckless ... by SuoDuanDao on Tuesday July 06, 2021 @08:46AM (#27747734)

I was going to mention sugar-loving fungi in our gut causing sugar cravings. Fascinating to think about next time my sweet tooth acts up.

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Re:Mind-controlling parasite makes hyena cubs more reckless ... by thatcat on Tuesday July 06, 2021 @09:53AM (#27748537)

I wonder what would happen if you made candy with some antifungal compound, maybe it would reduce the craving for sugar..

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Re:Mind-controlling parasite makes hyena cubs more reckless ... by SuoDuanDao on Tuesday July 06, 2021 @10:54AM (#27749446)

Xyletol sort of works that way, it looks like sugar to (at least some of) the micro-organisms that like sugar but contains nothing nutritious to them.

Not sure if one can separate the effect prolonged xyletol substitution has on the microbiome from the effect it has on the actual human portion of the metabolism, if one replaces any addiction with something else the original cravings will subside over time.

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