Scientists probe why junk food is so hard to resist

NCT ID NCT05437809

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at how different types of ultra-processed foods—like those high in fat, sugar, or both—affect feelings of reward and overeating. Fifty adults with obesity will eat various snack foods in the lab and report their cravings and mood. The goal is to understand what makes these foods so tempting, which could help develop new treatments for overeating and obesity.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

ultra-processed foods (high fat, high refined carbohydrates, or both)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could identify which ingredients in ultra-processed foods drive overeating, leading to better strategies for treating obesity.

What could go wrong

This is an early observational study with only 50 participants, so findings may not apply broadly. It measures short-term responses, not long-term weight loss.

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.

Food Addiction Hyperphagia Obesity obesity disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • Drexel University

    RECRUITING

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

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