Seven ways to trick yourself into eating better 08.06.2026

Our senses significantly influence our eating habits, often unconsciously, as psychologist Charles Spence from the University of Oxford explains that flavour is a multisensory construct. Visual cues like packaging color and product placement play a role, with brighter colors and eye-level items often deemed more appealing or healthy, while opaque jars can disguise unhealthy snacks. Presentation also matters; food served on white round plates may taste sweeter, and visually appealing arrangements can enhance enjoyment and perceived value. Sound, through "sonic seasoning," can affect eating pace and taste perception, with slower music encouraging slower eating and higher-pitched music enhancing sweetness. Furthermore, altering food's energy density by adding pureed vegetables can reduce calorie intake without affecting satiety, as we tend to eat a consistent volume of food. External cues frequently override our internal feelings of fullness, suggesting that by understanding and manipulating these sensory triggers, we can be nudged toward healthier food choices.



















