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Intermittent Binge-Intake Model in Mice

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A behavioral model of cyclical dieting.

Steven M Suranovic¹, Robert S Goldfarb

¹Department of Economics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.

Advances in Health Economics and Health Services Research

|June 25, 2009

Summary

This study models food choices and weight gain using behavioral economics. It reveals that while dieting offers temporary weight loss, cyclical dieting becomes a pattern due to recurring weight gain.

Area of Science:

Behavioral Economics
Physiology
Obesity Research

Background:

Individual food consumption choices significantly impact weight management.
Bounded rationality influences decision-making in dietary habits.
Understanding the dynamics of weight gain and dieting is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

To present a behavioral economics model of food consumption and weight change.
To simulate long-term weight dynamics considering bounded rationality.
To analyze the cyclical nature of dieting and its impact on weight trends.

Main Methods:

Developed a behavioral economics model incorporating bounded rationality.
Utilized a physiological weight maintenance calorie function.

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Simulated food consumption and weight changes for a representative female over 30 years.

Main Results:

Simulations show individuals periodically diet, but weight loss is temporary.
Recurrent weight gain leads to cyclical dieting behavior.
Dieting frequency is influenced by decision period, dieting costs, and habit persistence.

Conclusions:

Bounded rationality in food choices contributes to cyclical weight gain and dieting.
Dieting alone may not lead to sustained weight loss without addressing underlying consumption patterns.
Factors like decision-making frequency and habit formation play key roles in long-term weight management outcomes.