Study Reveals Reasons Why Teenagers Can Keep Eating Even When They Are Not Hungry

JAKARTA - Teenagers can eat continuously even if they are not hungry, especially if what they consume is ultra-processed food. This was revealed in a recent study from Virginia Tech, which was released in December 2025.

The study showed that the late teenage years are the most vulnerable phase, because the body's response to ultra-processed foods is different compared to young adults.

This condition is considered dangerous because the habit of eating without hunger can potentially trigger weight gain from a young age. This study was conducted by involving 27 participants, aged 18 to 24 years.

They were asked to undergo two different diets for two weeks. In one phase, participants ate ultra-processed foods, while in the other phase they underwent a diet without ultra-processed foods.

Researchers ensure that both diets have balanced calorie and nutrient content. Thus, increased food intake is not caused by the amount of energy, sugar, or fat alone.

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The results showed a striking difference in the 18-21 age group, who ate more after undergoing an ultra-processed food diet. Even after eating the main meal, this age group still continued to snack even though they didn't feel hungry.

"Younger age groups consume more calories from ultra-processed foods, even when they are not hungry," said Virgnia Tech neuroscientist Alex DiFeliceantonio, quoted by Science Daily, on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.

Researchers assess the final phase of adolescence as a crucial period, because at this age a person begins to be independent in choosing food and forming long-term eating habits.

"If this pattern continues to repeat, the risk of weight gain at a young age will increase," said nutrition professor and senior author of the study, Brenda Davy.

Thus, the consumption of ultra-processed foods among adolescents must be very carefully considered. This is because through the study it is reminded that ultra-processed foods not only affect nutritional intake, but also affect the way the body and brain respond to hunger, especially in adolescents.