Stress may drive unhealthy eating in Food-Insecure adults

NCT ID NCT05191030

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study looked at how stress influences food choices in 453 adults with varying levels of food insecurity. Participants were exposed to a stressful situation and then offered a buffet of high-calorie, sugary, and fatty foods. Researchers measured how much they ate and whether the stress hormone cortisol played a role. The goal is to understand the link between food insecurity, stress, and poor diet.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to: If successful, this research could help explain why food insecurity is linked to poor diet and metabolic problems, pointing toward better support strategies.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It measures responses in a lab setting, which may not reflect real-world behavior. Results are exploratory and may not lead to direct changes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Stress, Psychological

As listed by the trial registrant

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

FOOD INSECURITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California, Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States

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