Products identified that cause an overwhelming desire to eat more

Scientists have discovered: ultra-processed foods affect appetite differently in adolescents and young adults. The study showed that people aged 18-21 begin to consume significantly more calories after a two-week diet high in ultra-processed foods, while 22-25-year-olds do not exhibit this effect.

As reported by TUT.AZ, the research results were published in the authoritative scientific journal Obesity.

According to The Lancet forecasts, by 2050, one in three Americans aged 15-24 will suffer from obesity. Although genetics and lifestyle influence the development of this condition, diet plays a decisive role. Ultra-processed foods, which make up 55-65% of young Americans' diets, cause particular concern. Previously, their consumption has already been linked to metabolic disorders, cardiovascular problems, and other diseases.

A team of scientists from Virginia Tech conducted a carefully controlled experiment involving 27 young men and women aged 18-25 with stable body weight. The study aimed to determine the influence of different types of diets on eating behavior when food choices are unrestricted.

For two weeks, participants followed one of two diets: the first consisted of 81% ultra-processed foods, while the second completely excluded them. Nutrition was strictly controlled: breakfasts were held in the laboratory, and other meals were prepared in a special metabolic kitchen. Importantly, both diets were identical across 22 parameters - from basic nutrients to mineral composition.

After the two-week diet, participants were invited to a buffet-style breakfast where they could eat without restrictions. Each was offered a tray with approximately 1800 kilocalories of food - four times more than a normal breakfast. Their tendency to overeat was then assessed: volunteers were offered a tray of snacks and, after mandatory tasting of each, were allowed to continue eating as desired.

Analysis of the results revealed an interesting pattern. Overall, the diet type did not affect total calorie consumption. However, when scientists divided participants by age, statistically significant differences emerged. Young people aged 18-21 consumed more calories at the "buffet" after a diet high in ultra-processed foods and more often continued eating even without feeling hungry. The 22-25 age group did not show this effect.

In future research, scientists plan to increase the number of participants and apply neuroimaging methods and biomarker analysis for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which ultra-processed foods influence young people's eating behavior.