External verses internal factors in the perception of satiety

Abstract

The internal/external hypothesis has been influential in weight control research. It proposes that environmental food cues (external), such as the sight, smell and taste of food, play an important role in the regulation of food consumption, especially for the obese. On the other hand, non-obese respond more to physiological cues (internal). The current status of this hypothesis is critically examined, and the hypothesis is considered in relation to cognitive cues and the perception of satiety. A study was carried out, the results of which are reported here, in which the "external" cue - verbal information - was manipulated. 72 subjects were asked to rate their perception of satiety after ingestion of a low calorie drink. Half the subjects were told the drink was high calorie. The subjects in the high calorie condition reported feeling significantly more satiated than the subjects in the low calorie condition. No significant interaction was found, however, between weight status and ratings of satiety.