For their study, scientists looked at both impulsive and non-impulsive eaters to determine why some people can resist while others repeatedly succumb to temptation. Subjects who were considered non-impulsive showed consistent behavior when faced with the prospect of food and experienced no conflicting goals, according to the researchers. Impulsives, on the other hand, had a conflict of goals when put in front of food. They didn't know whether they should give in or hold back.
Both groups recalled their past responses to particular foods and results found that when people remembered holding back and resisting a food, they were far more likely to say no a second time. Because impulsive eaters have a history of giving in to food, when faced with a similar situation, they follow past actions. The scientists found, however, that even impulsive eaters can curb their urges by thinking back to times where they did say no to food.
So when the snack table at a party is calling you back for seconds, focus on past victories over food and get on with your night. For more tips on how to avoid unhealthy eating, check out our interview with Mindless Eating author Brian Wansink. In case you still want to make room for a feast, get the best ways to cut calories from your diet from the Fit Chick. And for the ultimate weight-loss motivation, click through our slideshow of cyclists who have dropped at least 100 pounds.