Delay discounting predicts binge-eating in Wistar rats
Amanda M Cano1, Eric S Murphy1, Gwen Lupfer1
1Department of Psychology, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3211 Providence Drive, Anchorage, AK, 99508, USA.
Behavioural Processes
|August 29, 2016
Summary
Impulsivity predicts binge-eating behavior in rats, but not obesity proneness. This suggests interventions targeting reward choices may help reduce binge eating.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Neuroscience
- Obesity Research
- Addiction Science
Background:
- Impulsivity is linked to obesity and binge-eating disorder.
- Binge-eating represents a distinct subset of individuals with overweight.
- Understanding the relationship between impulsivity and specific eating behaviors is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between impulsivity, binge-eating behavior, and diet-induced obesity proneness in a rat model.
- To determine if impulsivity predicts binge-eating and/or obesity proneness.
- To explore the distinct contributions of impulsivity and binge-eating to obesity.
Main Methods:
- 10 male Wistar rats were used in a counterbalanced experimental design.
- Impulsivity was assessed using a delay discounting task.
- Binge-eating was measured by consumption of intermittently available palatable food (Oreo cookies).
- Diet-induced obesity proneness was assessed by weight gain on a sweet, high-fat diet.
Main Results:
- Impulsivity significantly predicted binge-eating behavior.
- Impulsivity did not predict diet-induced obesity proneness.
- Binge-eating behavior and obesity proneness were not significantly related.
- This study provides the first evidence associating binge-eating behavior with impulsivity in rats.
Conclusions:
- Impulsivity is a specific predictor of binge-eating behavior, independent of general obesity proneness.
- Findings suggest that interventions aimed at improving self-control over reward choices may be effective in managing binge-eating.
- Future research should explore the efficacy of delay discounting interventions for binge-eating behavior.
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