How changing diets can alter our taste for sweetness and help reduce sugar intake
Official title: Diet-induced modification of sweet taste perception and preference: A potential strategy to aid in population-wide reduction in sugar intake
Funded at Monell Chemical Senses Center · NIH-10454866 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether slowly reducing the sugar in foods and drinks can help people get used to less sweetness over time, making it easier for them to cut back on sugar in their diets.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Monell Chemical Senses Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2018 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $371,670 |
| NIH project number | 5U01DC017130-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10454866 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are interested in modifying their sugar consumption habits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have specific dietary restrictions or conditions that prevent them from consuming modified sugar products may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates whether modifying the sugar content in foods and beverages can help people adjust their taste preferences over time, leading to a reduction in sugar consumption. By gradually decreasing the amount of added sugars in commercially available products, the study aims to determine if individuals can acclimate to lower sweetness levels, similar to how people adapt to lower sodium diets. The research will involve controlled trials to assess changes in taste perception and preference among participants, providing valuable insights into dietary habits and health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies for reducing sugar intake across populations, potentially improving overall health and reducing the risk of related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on sodium reduction has shown success in helping individuals adjust their taste preferences, suggesting that a similar approach for sugar may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Monell Chemical Senses Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wise, Paul M — Monell Chemical Senses Center
- Study coordinator: Wise, Paul M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.