Food Choice Among Individuals With an Eating Disorder Diagnosis
This online study wants to understand how different food labels, such as warning labels or traffic light labels, influence the food choices of people who have been diagnosed with an eating disorder. Participants will make pretend food choices online. First, they'll choose foods without any special labels. Then, they'll be put into one of three groups: a group seeing warning labels, a group seeing traffic light labels, or a group seeing no labels again. They'll make choices based on these labels. The study also aims to see if certain labels cause more negative feelings. This research could help us learn more about how food labelling affects people with eating disorders.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about understanding how different types of labels on food packaging might affect people who have an eating disorder. You know those labels you see on foods, like 'traffic light' colours (red, amber, green) or 'high in sugar' warnings? This research wants to see if these labels change what people with eating disorders choose to eat and how these labels make them feel.
We know that for some people, thinking about food and making choices can be really complex. This study hopes to find out if certain labels might have a bigger impact on food choices or cause more uncomfortable feelings than others. The information gathered could be really important for helping us understand how best to present food information to support people's health and well-being.
Ultimately, the goal is to discover if these labels truly guide people towards healthier choices without causing unnecessary stress or negative feelings, especially for those managing an eating disorder. Your participation could help improve how food information is shared in the future.
Key takeaways
- It's an online study about food labels and eating disorders.
- You'll make pretend food choices and answer questions.
- Participation could help improve future food labelling for people with eating disorders.
- You need to be over 18, live in the UK, and have an eating disorder diagnosis.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and live in the UK. It's important that you can speak and understand English well. You also need to have been diagnosed with an eating disorder at some point in your life, whether you have it currently or had it in the past.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to take part. You can't join if you are currently fasting or following any other very strict eating patterns. Also, if you have any dietary restrictions or intolerances, like being vegan or needing gluten-free foods, you won't be able to participate. This is because the study focuses on general food choices.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am 18 years old or older.
- I live in the UK and can speak English well.
- I have been diagnosed with an eating disorder (now or in the past).
- I am not currently fasting or on a very restrictive eating plan.
- I do not have any specific dietary restrictions or intolerances (e.g., vegan, gluten-free).
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be involved in an online study. First, you'll complete a task where you choose foods virtually, without any special labels. This is like a starting point.
Then, between 24 hours and one week later, you'll do a similar task again. For this second task, you'll be placed into one of three groups by chance: one group will see 'warning' labels on foods, another group will see 'traffic light' labels, and the third group will see no labels again. You won't know which group you are in ahead of time. In both tasks, you'll be shown six food items and asked to choose one item five times, based on different food components like sugar, salt, or fat. After you've made your choices in the second task, you'll answer some questions about your experience. The whole study is done online and doesn't involve any in-person visits, medication, or long-term follow-up beyond the tasks and questions.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of LiverpoolVerified postcodeLiverpool, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of food labels will I see?
You might see 'warning labels' (like 'high in sugar') or 'traffic light labels' (red, amber, green colours indicating nutrient levels).
Do I have to buy or eat any food?
No, this is an online study where you make pretend ('hypothetical') food choices, so you won't need to buy or eat anything.
How long will the study take?
The study involves two online tasks. The second task will be completed between 24 hours and one week after the first. Each task involves making choices and answering questions.
Will anyone know which group I am in?
No, participants are randomly assigned to groups, and you won't know which group you are in. This helps ensure fair results.
What happens to the information I give?
The information you provide will be used to understand how different food labels affect choices and feelings in people with eating disorders. Your answers will be kept private.
How to find out more
Rebecca Evans, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.