Researchers use computer game to help children choose healthier snacks

A simple brain-training game could help children choose healthy snacks like fruit and vegetables instead of chocolate and sweets, according to a new study. Children who played a seven-minute game devised by University of Exeter psychologists made healthier choices when asked to pick foods afterwards. The game involves reacting to images of healthy food by pressing a button, and doing nothing if unhealthy foods are shown.

"Our training encourages people to make a new association - when they see unhealthy food, they stop," said Lucy Porter, the lead researcher on the project.

"The research is at an early stage and we need to investigate whether our game can shift dietary habits in the long-term, but we think it could make a useful contribution."

The researchers ran two experiments, and in total more than 200 schoolchildren aged 4-11 were shown images of healthy and unhealthy foods.

"We didn't see a total turnaround in favour of choosing healthy options, but these increased from about 30% of foods chosen to over 50% in children who did the brain training. Age did not affect whether the game worked or not, meaning that children as young as four can benefit from playing," said Porter.

source: sciencenewsline.com