Biobehavioral Reward Responses Associated With Consumption of Nutritionally Diverse Ultra-Processed Foods
The changing food environment, with increasingly abundant ultra-processed food (UPF) options, may directly contribute to rising rates of obesity, though it is unknown which ingredients in UPF elevate their reinforcing nature in a way that may lead to overconsumption. The proposed study is the first to systematically examine differences in the rewarding characteristics of and physiological and metabolic responses to UPFs that are high in fat, refined carbohydrates (like sugar), or both. Understanding the biobehavioral underpinnings that enhance the reinforcing potential of ingredients in UPF (e.g., fat vs. refined carbohydrates) can inform novel intervention targets for the treatment of overeating and obesity.
• 18 to 65 years old
• BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2
• Endorse liking the test snack foods at a 6 on a 1-10 scale
• Live in the greater Philadelphia area and are willing/able to participate in six in-person assessments
• Can access and are willing/able to use a smartphone
• Able to give consent