Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
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Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
A randomized controlled trial of an appearance-based dietary intervention
Ross D Whitehead1, Gözde Ozakinci1, David I Perrett2
1School of Medicine.
Summary
Personalized appearance-based dietary interventions significantly increase fruit and vegetable intake. Visualizing improved skin appearance motivates sustained healthy eating habits.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Poor fruit and vegetable intake contributes to preventable diseases.
- Dietary changes can positively impact skin appearance.
- Appearance-based interventions are a novel approach to dietary modification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an appearance-based dietary intervention.
- To determine if visualizing skin improvements influences fruit and vegetable consumption.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial with three groups: information-only, generic appearance-based, and own-face appearance-based.
- Dietary intake assessed at baseline and over 10 weeks.
- Intervention groups viewed visual stimuli of fruit and vegetable consumption effects on skin color.
Main Results:
- The own-face appearance-based intervention group showed a significant, sustained increase in fruit and vegetable intake.
- Information-only and generic appearance-based groups had no significant dietary changes.
- Results controlled for baseline diet and participant eligibility.
Conclusions:
- Personalized visual feedback on skin benefits can motivate improved dietary habits.
- Appearance-based interventions show promise for public health nutrition strategies.
- Encouraging fruit and vegetable consumption through aesthetic benefits is effective.
