Speed of sugar digestion could be key to why we crave carbs

NCT ID NCT06053294

First seen Jul 02, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026

Summary

This study investigates whether the speed at which carbohydrates are digested and absorbed affects how rewarding they feel. Researchers will give healthy adults flavored drinks sweetened with either real sugar or a no-calorie sweetener, then measure changes in brain activity, metabolism, and food preferences. The goal is to understand the gut-brain connection that drives cravings for high-carb foods.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

flavored beverages with sucralose or sucrose

What this could lead to

If successful, this research could reveal why fast-digesting carbs are so appealing and help design healthier foods that still satisfy cravings.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage observational study in healthy adults, so findings may not apply to people with metabolic conditions or lead directly to treatments.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

carbohydrate metabolism disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC

    RECRUITING

    Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••