Impact of Cognitive Distractions on Eating Habits
Study Overview
Researchers have conducted a study examining how cognitive distractions during meals influence eating habits and result in reduced food intake. The findings from this randomized-controlled study, which included 119 adult participants, were published in the Journal of Nutrition.
Methodology
The participants were divided into two groups: the distracted group and the control group. Participants in the distracted group engaged in a game while consuming their meal, whereas the control group enjoyed the same meal without any distractions. After fifteen minutes of eating, all participants rested for thirty minutes before being offered a snack. Following the snack, participants completed a survey that required them to recall information about their meals.
Key Findings
The researchers found that those who ate while playing games exhibited a significant reduction in food intake compared to the control group. Additionally, memory assessment revealed that control group participants had a better recall of their meal than those who were distracted.
Moreover, the performance of participants in the second session was influenced by their experience in the first session. Those in the distracted group during the first session continued to show lower food intake in the second session compared to the control group. Interestingly, participants in the distracted group treated the second session as if it were their first encounter with the meal, while control group participants displayed more familiarity with the food.
Research Insights
Lead author Carli A. Liguori commented on the findings, stating, “Something about being distracted on their initial visit really seemed to change the amount they consumed during the non-distracted meal. There may be a potent carryover effect between the mechanism of distraction and the novelty of the food served.”
Conclusion and Future Research
Contrary to the initial hypothesis that distractions, such as games, would lead to increased food consumption, this study revealed that distractions actually resulted in reduced intake. However, the research is not definitive, and further investigation is necessary to better understand the types of distractions and their effects on eating behavior.
References
1. Liguori, C., Nikolaus, C., & Nickols-Richardson, S. (2020). Cognitive Distraction at Mealtime Decreases Amount Consumed in Healthy Young Adults: A Randomized Crossover Exploratory Study. The Journal of Nutrition. doi: 10.1093/jn/nxaa022
2. Using technology during mealtimes may decrease food intake, study finds. (2020). Retrieved 11 March 2020, from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-03/uoia-utd030620.php
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