La Cura nel Cibo: analisi quanti-qualitativa degli effetti derivati da una presentazione estetica del pasto nei contesti sanitari

Stefano Testa; Elena Pizzi

doi:10.54103/dn/28798

Authors

Stefano Testa Registered Nurse https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3999-3437
Elena Pizzi Bachelor School of Nursing UNITO, San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano, Italy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54103/dn/28798

Keywords:

aesthetics, presentation, food, liking, mood, palatability, food intake

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Neuroscience has shown that visual stimuli can influence the brain’s reward circuits by activating non-homeostatic signals that enhance the desire to eat even after energy requirements have been met.

AIM: To investigate, using a mixed-methods approach, the effects of enhancing the aesthetic presentation of food on the eating experience of individuals receiving healthcare.

METHODS: A multicentre single-arm pre–post pilot study (N=34) was conducted. The intervention consisted of improving the aesthetic presentation of breakfast without changing food quality or type. Outcomes included meal satisfaction, mood, food appeal, food intake, and interaction with healthcare professionals.

RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in meal satisfaction, mood, and food appeal. No significant differences were found in interaction with healthcare professionals. Caloric intake was lower during the intervention than at baseline, although the difference was not statistically significant. Qualitative findings showed increased positive emotions related to meals and greater appreciation of food aesthetics.

DISCUSSION: Enhancing the aesthetic presentation of food appears to positively influence several dimensions of the eating experience. However, the multifactorial nature of eating behaviour and potential confounding factors require cautious interpretation.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite the limitations of a pilot study, these findings suggest that food aesthetics may represent a promising strategy for improving patients’ eating experience in clinical care settings.

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