Scientists Found a Strange Way to Curb Your Junk Food Cravings
By Luis Prada
Published on April 20, 2026.
Researchers from Computers In Human Behavior have found that staring at pictures of junk food can reduce the urge to eat it. This is due to a phenomenon known as "cross-modal satiation", where the mere sight of food partially satisfies the craving without actually absorbing its hundreds of calories. The study also found that people who were told to suppress thoughts about indulgent desserts and watched more fatty food content also went on to eat less actual chocolate when given the opportunity. This effect was most noticeable among those actively trying to restrict their eating, and those prone to mentally pushing food thoughts away. The experiments were mostly focused on chocolate, with adjustments mostly to younger participants and controlled environments.
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