journal article·2021-12-16Open access

Psychological Effects of Sweet Taste and Sweet Taste Preference

Michael Schaefer, Eileen Garbow

Applied Sciences· Volume 11· Issue 24

Abstract

This review summarizes current studies on the psychological effects of sweet taste and its role in overweight and obesity. Recent psychological studies demonstrate intriguing relationships between the experience of sweet taste and social perceptions and behavior. For example, studies show that experiencing sweet taste affects “helping behavior” or interest in initiating a romantic relationship. Furthermore, given that the role of sweet taste in obesity has been suggested, we reviewed studies on the relationship between sweet taste preference and eating behavior, thereby examining the role of sweet taste (and the preference for it) in the global rise of overweight and obesity in adults and children. Finally, we provide an outlook on future research perspectives on the psychological effects of sweet taste, and suggest some fundamental issues that future research should address to help provide a comprehensive understanding of how sweet taste and sweet taste preference affect our thinking and eating behaviors.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Olfactory and Sensory Function Studies · Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques · Sensory Analysis and Statistical Methods

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Medical School Berlin, Fakultät Naturwissenschaften, Rüdesheimer Str. 50, 14197 Berlin, Germany

Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Ostenstr. 26, 85072 Eichstätt, Germany

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