Olfactory stimulation curbs food cravings

Based on the logic of mutual competition between cravings and odours for limited-capacity resources, this study investigated whether a simple olfactory task, involving a brief odour exposure, could reduce food cravings. In support, Experiment 1 showed that smelling a neutral unfamiliar odorant reduced cravings for highly desired food items, relative to a comparison auditory task and a no-task control condition. Experiment 2 replicated these findings specifically for chocolate cravings, which can be particularly problematic. Thus olfactory stimulation offers potential scope for curbing unwanted food cravings.

► Food cravings are a risk factor for the development of problem eating behaviour.
► We examined effects of olfactory stimulation on food craving reduction.
► A brief odour exposure reduced cravings for food as well as chocolate.
► A simple olfactory task presents a practical tool for reducing food cravings.