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How restrained eaters perceive the amount they eat
1Department of Experimental Abnormal Psychology, Limburg University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Restrained eaters consume more calories and underestimate intake, challenging the cognitive model of binge eating. Their perception of eating is inaccurate, leading to disinhibited eating behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The cognitive model of binge eating suggests perceived overeating triggers disinhibited eating in restrained eaters.
- This model hinges on the perception of food intake, which has not been directly tested.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how restrained eaters perceive the amount and caloric content of food consumed.
- To compare perception accuracy between restrained and unrestrained eaters.
Main Methods:
- Participants had ad libitum access to palatable food.
- Actual food intake and estimated caloric intake were measured.
- Perception of amount eaten was compared to actual consumption.
Main Results:
- Restrained eaters consumed significantly more calories than unrestrained eaters.
- Restrained eaters underestimated their caloric intake and did not perceive eating large amounts.
- Unrestrained eaters accurately estimated their caloric intake.
Conclusions:
- Findings challenge the cognitive restraint model by showing inaccurate perception in restrained eaters.
- The perception of eating, not just awareness of a broken diet, may be key.
- Further research is needed to understand the implications for binge eating disorder treatments.