What we eat can change how we react to unfairness.
Nutritionally, all calories are not the same, in that calories from different sources (carbohydrates vs. fats, for example) have differential metabolic effects. In a two-part study, researchers explored whether macronutrients (protein and carbohydrates) differently influence social decisions as assessed in a behavioral paradigm, the ultimatum game [UG]). In this game, participants reject or accept monetary offers; rejection of an unfair offer has been interpreted as punishment.
First, researchers examined the relationship of the carbohydrate-protein ratio in 76 participants' usual breakfast to how they performed on the UG. The unfair offer was rejected by 24% of the group reporting a low-carbohydrate/high-protein breakfast and by 53% of the …
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)