Evaluating the Effects of Artificial Sweeteners on the Role of Food Priming in Food Consumption

Abstract

Abstract: As a result of globalization and economic advancements, dietary habits have shifted towards increased energy intake and heightened consumption of energy-dense foods, which have contributed to the obesity epidemic and cardiovascular disease. [1] This increase in food intake has been furthered by numerous external stimuli in the form of advertising, which is focused on immediate pleasure and can be difficult to resist. [2] Such advertising plays the role of a food prime, or a cue that serves to induce food intake under tempting circumstances. [3] The effect of artificial sweeteners on the role of food priming in food consumption was evaluated by comparing Coca-Cola with Diet Coca-Cola consumption on M&M consumption in differently primed settings, as well as to observe the independent effects of these factors on food intake. Fifty-eight college students were recruited to participate in a two-week study in which they were assigned different combinations of beverages and commercials to analyze both the independent and dependent effects of both factors on food consumption. A significant positive association was observed between commercial type and food intake (p=0.03), while no significant association was recorded between the beverage type and food intake. Further research is needed to examine the relationship between the two factors on a significant level and determine the mechanism behind these findings.