How variety and energy density affect how much people eat at a meal
Official title: The Combined Effects of Energy Density and Variety on Intake
Run by Cornell University · NCT07663214 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests how the amount of food variety and the energy density of foods influence meal intake in adults, and whether personal factors influence those effects.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Cornell University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ithaca, New York) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 12, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07663214 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged with BMI 18.5–29.9 kg/m2 who regularly eat three meals daily and do not have conditions or circumstances known to affect appetite.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with recent significant weight change, pregnancy, breastfeeding, smoking, athletic training, or health conditions affecting appetite may not see a direct benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants will be assigned to meals that vary by two factors: the variety of foods and the energy density of the foods. The study will examine the independent and combined effects of low vs high variety and low vs high energy density on overall meal intake. Researchers will also explore how individual characteristics may modulate these effects. Eligible adults will follow a controlled eating schedule across study visits, with careful monitoring of intake and tolerability. The investigation is conducted at Cornell University and led by Cornell investigators, with emphasis on rigorous measurement of food consumption and related variables.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could inform dietary guidance on how menu variety and energy density influence meal portions and energy intake.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research has shown that both variety and energy density can influence intake, but their combined effects and individual modifiers are less well established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Regularly consume 3 meals per day * Like, are willing to eat, and do not have allergies to the study foods * Are willing to refrain from drinking alcohol the day before study visits * Are willing to consume a consistent breakfast the day of study visits * Have a BMI between 18.5-29.9 kg/m2 Exclusion Criteria: * Experienced a weight change \>5 kg in the past month * Are a smoker * Are an athlete in training * Take medications or have a health condition known to affect appetite * Are pregnant or breastfeeding * Have ever been diagnosed with an eating disorder or depression * Specialize in the fields of psychology or nutritional sciences.
Where it's running
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Cornell University
Ithaca, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Paige M Cunningham, PhD — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Paige M Cunningham, PhD
- Email: pmc242@cornell.edu
- Phone: 607-255-2650
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.