Association between subjective emotions and food choice behavior in the general Japanese population:An internet panel survey

Abstract

Purpose:This study aimed to clarify the association between subjective emotions and food choice behavior in Japanese adults aged 18 years or older. Methods:Five hundred Japanese adults completed an online questionnaire. We collected data on the participants’ characteristics, lifestyle, and changes in food group selection under normal conditions and six emotional states (anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise). We calculated the dietary balance score (DBS) based on the frequency of intake for 10 food groups. Estimated mean DBS and intake frequency of its components during each emotional state were assessed using generalized estimating equations. Results:More than half of participants (59.6%) reported that their food selection usually changed according to their emotional state. The DBS score was lower in all six emotional states than in the normal state in both sexes. Sadness decreased intake frequency of the DBS components in both sexes. Additionally, the frequency of confectionery and beverage intake during happiness increased compared to the normal state in both sexes. Conversely, the frequency of confectionery intake during sadness decreased compared to the normal state in both sexes. Conclusion:Emotions, especially sadness and happiness, may affect the frequency of food group intake and dietary balance in Japanese adults. J. Med. Invest. 73 : 241-250, February, 2026