September 24, 2012

from HuffingtonPost Website

A recent study out of University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Kansas Medical Center suggests that children's brains may be imprinted with the logos of popular fast food brands.

The study used MRI technology to monitor the brain activity of kids between the ages of 10 and 14.

The kids were then shown a series of widely popular, recognizable logos - some fast food-related and some not.

The study found that the reward processing centers and areas of the brain devoted to appetite drive and control lit up with activity when the kids saw fast food logos, but not when they saw other non-food-related logos.

Well sure - we thought to ourselves when we read this - when someone mentions food, you get hungry.

Why should this be alarming?

"Research has shown children are more likely to choose those foods with familiar logos," said study-leader, Dr. Amanda Bruce told The Independent.

 

"That is concerning because the majority of foods marketed to children are unhealthy, calorifically-dense foods high in sugars, fat, and sodium."

This is particularly interesting scientific data, as it comes on the heels of British politician Chris Brewis likening fast food to child abuse in a recent BBC Radio interview.