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Stimulation of appetite by alcohol
M M Hetherington1, F Cameron, D J Wallis
1Department of Psychology, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland DD1 4HN, UK. m.m.hetherington@dundee.ac.uk
Physiology & Behavior
|November 21, 2001
Summary
Alcohol consumption significantly increases food intake at lunch, even when controlling for its caloric content. This suggests alcohol may stimulate appetite rather than being compensated for by its energy.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Alcohol Research
- Appetite Regulation
Background:
- Alcohol's impact on appetite and subsequent food intake requires further investigation.
- Understanding short-term energy compensation from alcohol is crucial for dietary management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the acute effects of alcohol consumption on appetite and ad libitum food intake in males.
- To determine if the energy content of alcohol is compensated for by reduced food intake.
Main Methods:
- 26 male subjects participated in a controlled laboratory study with three conditions: baseline, no-alcohol lager, and alcohol-spiked lager.
- Appetite ratings (hunger, desire to eat, fullness) were measured using visual analog scales.
- Ad libitum lunch intake was measured following a preload or rest period.
Main Results:
- Lunch energy intake was significantly higher after consuming alcohol (7301 kJ) compared to no-alcohol (6479 kJ) and baseline (6365 kJ) conditions.
- Appetite ratings did not differ significantly between the alcohol and no-alcohol conditions.
- Total energy intake increased by 30% in the alcohol condition, indicating a lack of short-term energy compensation.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol consumption enhances short-term food intake without altering subjective appetite ratings.
- The energy provided by alcohol is not compensated for by reduced food intake and may stimulate appetite.
- Findings suggest alcohol consumption may contribute to a positive energy balance.