Physiologic responses to sensory stimulation by food: nutritional implications.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review of physiological mechanisms and theoretical nutritional implications.
PubMed 9120195 · doi:10.1016/S0002-8223(97)00101-6
What was done
This was a narrative review summarizing literature on preabsorptive or cephalic phase responses triggered by the sensory properties of food (sight, smell, taste, and texture). The review evaluated the digestive, endocrinologic, thermogenic, cardiovascular, and renal responses elicited by sensory exposure, as well as proposed mechanisms regarding their role in nutrient absorption and utilization.
What was found
The abstract provides no quantitative data or specific numerical estimates. It notes that sensory exposure elicits responses that are rapid (occurring within minutes), small relative to actual post-ingestive metabolic responses, and transient (returning to near-baseline levels within minutes).
Why it matters
Understanding cephalic phase responses outlines how the nervous system prepares the gastrointestinal tract and metabolic pathways for nutrient handling prior to actual absorption.
Limits
The abstract describes a narrative review with no primary experimental data, sample size details, or systematic review methodology. Practical clinical relevance remains speculative, and the abstract explicitly states that limited understanding prevents the formulation of specific dietary or therapeutic recommendations.
Cited by
- supports Smelling and seeing food triggers the cephalic phase response.