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A New Study Explores the Relationship Between Diet and Perception of Beauty
A groundbreaking study conducted by Visine and colleagues at the University of Montpellier, France, suggests a compelling link between consumption of refined carbohydrates and facial attractiveness, as perceived by heterosexual volunteers of the opposite sex. Published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on March 6, 2024, the research sheds light on the potential impact of dietary habits on non-medical traits such as attractiveness.
The Western diet, characterized by its high consumption of refined carbohydrates like white flour and table sugar, has long been associated with various adverse health effects, including obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Building upon previous evidence suggesting a connection between diet and attractiveness, the researchers sought to investigate this phenomenon further.
The study involved 104 French male and female adults, who were given either a high-glycemic breakfast rich in refined carbohydrates or a low-glycemic breakfast. Participants also completed a questionnaire to assess their typical consumption habits of refined carbohydrates. Subsequently, heterosexual volunteers were tasked with rating the facial attractiveness of opposite-sex participants based on photos taken two hours after consuming the provided breakfast.
Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between consuming a high-glycemic breakfast and lower subsequent facial attractiveness ratings for both men and women. Moreover, chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates during breakfast and snacks was linked to decreased attractiveness ratings, although the consumption of high-energy foods at these times correlated with higher attractiveness ratings.
Notably, sex differences were observed, with high-energy intake during afternoon snacking in men associated with lower attractiveness ratings, while high-glycemic intake was linked to higher ratings.
The study’s findings remained robust even after accounting for potential confounding factors such as age, BMI, smoking habits, and facial hairiness. However, the researchers stress the need for further research, including larger and more diverse sample sizes, to deepen understanding of the precise mechanisms underlying the relationship between refined carbohydrates and attractiveness.
In summary, the study underscores the potential impact of dietary choices on social perceptions of attractiveness and highlights the importance of considering diet as a factor in social interactions.
The authors conclude: “Facial attractiveness, an important factor of social interactions, seems to be impacted by immediate and chronic refined carbohydrate consumption in men and women.”
