Study finds mirrors make junk food less appealing
Ever wished there was a way you could stop snacking on unhealthy food? Well, the mirror, mirror on the wall might be the key.
A new study by the University of Central Florida has found a bizarre but real solution to binging. Researchers asked 185 students to choose between a chocolate cake or fruit salad, then eat it in a room with a mirror. Those who ate the cake in front of a mirror reported the cake was less tasty, and in turn ate less compared to those who ate it in a room without mirrors.
While it might seem like a strange result, researchers believe it could offer a solution to manage binge eating. Lead researcher Ata Jami explains mirrors force us to analyse ourselves and our activities.
“A glance in the mirror tells people more than just about their physical appearance. It enables them to view themselves objectively and helps them to judge themselves and their behaviours in a same way that they judge others,” he said in a statement.
He believes mirrors cause us to compare ourselves against social standards. When we do something that is perceived as shameful or embarrassing, we shy away from mirrors. Therefore, overeating in a room with a mirror makes the snacker more aware of their discomfort, and effects the perceived tastiness, or reward of the food.
Researchers believe their findings can easily be applied to everyday life. They suggest placing a mirror in eating areas, like a dining room or kitchen.
It may well be the simple solution you need to curb your unhealthy snack habits.
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