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The worldwide epidemic of obesity has inspired a
great deal of research into its causes and
consequences. It is therefore surprising that so few
studies have examined such a fundamental part of
eating behavior: our sense of smell. The aim of this
new study was to examine the differences in
olfaction in obese and nonobese individuals.
Participants (n = 40) categorized as obese (body
mass index = 30) or nonobese (body mass index < 30)
completed a standardized olfactory threshold test to
an ecologically valid food-related odor (chocolate),
followed by a taste test.
Researchers found that compared with those not
obese, obese individuals rated the chocolate odor as
more pleasant and were substantially more sensitive
to the odor.
There was also evidence that their sense of taste
was more acute for sour and salty
tastants.Correlational analyses further revealed
that those measures of olfaction and taste were
positively associated with body mass index.
These findings suggest that obese individuals show
increased sensitivity and preference for an odor
associated with energy dense foods. They also
suggest that differences in our sense of smell offer
a promising area for future research in obesity.
For more information
Chemical senses
Obese Individuals Have Higher Preference and
Sensitivity to Odor of Chocolate
University of Portsmouth
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