How ultra-processed foods affect eating behavior and brain function
Influence of ultra-processed foods on reward processing and energy intake
This study is looking at how eating a lot of ultra-processed foods affects the way young people eat and how their brains work, to see if there's a link between what they eat and their mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10670413 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how ultra-processed foods influence eating behaviors and brain function, particularly in adolescents and young adults. It aims to understand the effects of these foods on reward processing and energy intake by conducting controlled diet interventions. Participants will be exposed to ultra-processed foods and their responses will be measured through brain imaging and behavioral assessments. The study seeks to establish a connection between diet quality and mental health outcomes during critical developmental stages.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 25 who consume a high amount of ultra-processed foods.
Not a fit: Patients who primarily consume whole, minimally processed foods or those with specific dietary restrictions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better dietary recommendations and interventions that improve health outcomes for adolescents and young adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that dietary patterns significantly affect brain function and behavior, suggesting that this study's approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Difeliceantonio, Alexandra Gold — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Difeliceantonio, Alexandra Gold
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 below.