Abstract
The influence of trait anxiety on food taste preferences was investigated in 73 healthy university students (age 21.3±0.5 years). Participants were divided into two groups (A-Trait group and Normal group) based on their State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores and both groups were tested for sensitivity to sweet, sour and salty tastes. Participant's emotions were assessed using the Affect-grid, and chronic stress was assessed using the Cumulative Fatigue Symptoms Index. The results of comparing test scores between the two groups indicated that the A-Trait group, in comparison to the Normal group, had a significantly higher sensitivity to sweet taste (t(61)=2.72, p<0.01). Also, the A-Trait group, compared to the Normal group, had a significantly higher arousal level (t(66)=2.04, p<0.05) and a significantly higher chronic stress level (t(71)=3.02, p<0.05). Moreover, arousal level (r=0.30, p<0.05) and chronic stress level (r=0.56, p<0.01) were correlated with trait anxiety. It is concluded that people with trait anxiety feel more stress and preferred sweet tasting food, suggesting that trait anxiety causes changes in eating habits.
