The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Sweet Taste Intensity and Liking

The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Sweet Taste Intensity and Liking

The endocannabinoid (eCB) system, a neurochemical signalling system consisting of CB-receptors and their endogenous ligands, has been found to be involved in food intake of sweet and palatable foods. Activation of the eCB system increases food intake and vice versa. The mechanism behind this effect is still unknown and the current study aims at clarifying why sweet food intake increases. It is hypothesized that sweet taste intensity increases and that sweet taste is experienced as more pleasant.

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI: 18.5 - 25 kg/m2
• Incidental cannabis use for at least one year, at least four times per year, but less than once a week.
• Dutch-speaking
• Willing to comply with the study procedures
• Having given written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not meeting the inclusion criteria
• Restraint eating (men: score > 2.90)
• Lack of appetite
• Having difficulties with swallowing/eating
• Usage of an energy restricted diet during the last two months
• Weight loss or weight gain of 5kg or more during the last two months
• Stomach or bowel disease
• Diabetes, thyroid disease, other endocrine disorders
• Use of daily medication except paracetamol
• Having taste or smell disorders (self-report)
• Being allergic/intolerant for products under study
• Previously experienced an adverse reaction to cannabinoids (e.g. anxiety, paranoia, nausea)
• Having (had) a schizophrenia or other psychotic illness
• Having a family history of schizophrenia or other psychotic illness
• Working at the Division of Human Nutrition (WUR)
• Current participation in other research from the Division of Human Nutrition (WUR)