Driven to Snack: Simulated Driving Increases Subsequent Consumption

When individuals eat while distracted, they may compensate by consuming more afterwards. Here, we examined the effect of eating driving, and explored potential underlying mechanisms. Participants (N = 116, 73.3% female) were randomly allocated to complete a driving simulation (distraction condition) or watch someone else drive (control 10g (50.8 kcal) potato chips. Afterwards, participants rated taste intensity hedonic experience, reported stress levels, then given opportunity As hypothesized, consumed chips after simulation. Stress levels higher in compared control condition, but inversely related consumption amount, ruling out as explanatory mechanism. Saltiness ratings differed between passive viewing only when controlling for stress. The current findings converge with earlier work showing that distracted can overconsumption, which turn lead long-term health implications. Limitations, implications directions are discussed.