Overview
The purpose of this research is to test if playing games designed to improve an individual's executive function can change their views about the types of foods they eat. Executive function is a set of mental processes that people use every day to make decisions - such as what kinds of foods they choose to eat and when and where they eat those foods.
Description
The purpose of this study is to determine whether executive function (EF) training concurrently improves attitudes, perceptions, and consumption of nutrient-dense foods (i.e., fruits, vegetables) while worsening the same of nutrient-poor foods. In effect, the aim is to test whether EF training can promote the substitution of nutrient-poor foods with fruits and vegetables (FV), as the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommends regular consumption of FV as part of a healthy dietary pattern. Given the health benefits associated with consuming FV, EF training that effectively promotes increased FV intake may benefit health. For example, FV consumption is associated with the reduced risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and eye and skin health. Moreover, FV consumption is associated with better mental and cognitive health.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- BMI 23-38 kg/m2
- US citizenship
- Not currently dieting to lose weight and no weight loss or gain of >2 kg over the past 3 months
- No tobacco or e-cigarette use
- Not pregnant or lactating or planning to become pregnant while participating in the study
Exclusion Criteria:
- Not a US citizen
- Currently dieting to lose weight
- Weight loss of >2 kg over the past 3 months
- Tobacco or e-cigarette use
- Pregnant or lactating or planning to become pregnant while participating in the study
- A history of bariatric surgery
- Diagnosis of major medical or psychiatric condition that would interfere with participation, including not being physically able to play the games, or a current eating disorder