The Effects of Energy Imbalance on Food Intake Behaviors

The Effects of Energy Imbalance on Food Intake Behaviors

This study will determine whether changes in energy balance alter regional neuronal activation of brain regions associated with food intake in individuals screened to be either resistant or prone to obesity. Specifically, it will determine whether foods of "hedonic" value elicit changes in regional neuronal activity in the fasted and fed state in "obese-resistant" and "obese-prone" men and women in varying states of energy balance.

Inclusion Criteria:

In the obese-prone group:

• BMI between 20-30
• Report at least one obese first-degree relative
• Self-describe as "struggling" with weight
• Weight-stable for at least 3 months prior to study participation

In the obese-resistant group:

• BMI between 17-25
• Report no obese first-degree relatives
• Self-describe as "naturally thin" and have never been overweight
• Overall weight stability

Exclusion Criteria:

• Significant medical or psychiatric disease
• History of eating disorder
• Left handed
• Unable to complete an MRI scan (e.g., metal in body, claustrophobic)