The Effect of Processing on Food Reward

Launched by VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AND STATE UNIVERSITY · Aug 24, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how different types of processed foods affect our bodies and brains, particularly in relation to metabolic responses and food preferences. Researchers want to find out if ultra-processed foods (UPFs) cause a stronger reaction in our metabolism after eating compared to minimally processed foods (MPFs). They will also explore if people value these foods differently when they see them, using brain scans to understand these responses better.

To participate in this study, you need to be between 18 and 65 years old, have a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9, and live in the Roanoke area. You should be able to speak and write in English and must not have any current or past health conditions like diabetes, metabolic disorders, or certain neurological issues. Participants will visit the research lab on different days to have meals made from either minimally or ultra-processed foods. Researchers will measure your body's reactions before and after eating and examine how much you are willing to pay for different foods while you are in an MRI scanner. Please note that participants cannot have any metal implants or a history of claustrophobia, as these may prevent you from participating in the MRI portion of the study.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • BMI between 18.5-24.9 kg/m2
• • Not pregnant or planning to become pregnant during study participation Residing in the Roanoke area and/or willing/able to attend sessions at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute
• • Able to speak and write in English
• • Participants must be able to see a computer display clearly with or without vision correction (eyeglasses, contacts).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Claustrophobia (this would make lying in an MRI scanner or indirect calorimetry canopy very uncomfortable).
• • 2. History of head injury resulting in loss of consciousness for more than 10 minutes 3. Current or past diagnosis of diabetes or metabolic disorder (thyroid disease, etc.) 4. Contraindications to MRI: Individuals with pacemaker, aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, cochlear implants, metal in eyes, steel worker, or other implants.
• • 5. History of alcohol or drug dependence 6. Active neurologic disorder 8. Diagnosed eating disorder 9. Food allergies or restrictive diet