Food \ Doctor's Rounds

Grocery Lists, Memory and Impulsive Food Decisions

Milk, eggs, bread, you know going to the grocery store with your list up here is something we all do and it's a efficient way to shop. But a recent study shows it may not be a great idea.

Researchers divided up a group of college students. Half picked what to buy based on what they saw on the shelves at the store. The others memorized a list before hand.

The shoppers would come up with food items from memory were actually more likely to make impulsive decisions and often pick sinful delights like cheese cake. Those who had to pick from what they actually saw in front of them were more likely to choose healthier alternatives like fruit salad.

Why? The researchers believe that the mental effort it takes to remember your items may at the same time decrease your willpower to hold off on that cheesecake or that box of cookies.

It's interesting but more studies need to be done. In the meantime, researches say it's a good idea to go to the store with a list. Write things down and double check them. That way you can cut down on the indulgences.

Oh and by the way never go to the grocery store hungry it's a sure recipe for disaster.


This entry last modified on: January 10, 2012 7:25 PM

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Who makes better food buying decisions: People who have a grocery shopping list or those who shop on the fly? Dr. Bruce Dan looks at how willpower can affect the healthfulness of your shopping trip.

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