Event Related Potential (ERP) markers of food-related inhibitory control are poor predictors of calorie and carbohydrate intake: A multiverse analysis

Abstract

Multiverse analyses strengthen the robustness of psychophysiological research by evaluating the influence of various analytical choices on results. The relationship between neural measures of inhibitory control and food intake is one area where researchers face multiple analytical decisions regarding inclusion and operationalization of variables. Although individuals with higher inhibitory control generally exhibit better diet-related outcomes, the relationship between event-related potential (ERP) markers of inhibitory control and food intake is inconsistent, calling into question the reliability of results. We conducted a multiverse analysis where 16 models were used to test a multiverse of relationships between ERP indices of inhibitory control and caloric or carbohydrate intake while controlling for age, biological sex, weight, and body mass index (BMI). No-go and difference (i.e., no-go minus go) amplitudes for N2 and P3 ERP components were used as indices of inhibitory control. Across four independent studies, 288 participants (M_age = 25.89, SD_age = 7.50) completed a high-calorie go/no-go task while ERP data were recorded. Food intake was recorded using the online Automated Self-Administered 24-hour Dietary Assessment Tool. Results generally found no significant relationship between ERP measures and calorie or carbohydrate intake. Biological males, heavier individuals, and those with higher BMIs tended to consume more food. Inhibitory control, as measured by the N2 and P3 ERP components during a high-calorie go/no-go task, does not consistently relate to food intake in the current multiverse analysis. Other cognitive and diet-related factors, like reward sensitivity and dietary restraint, need consideration when testing the link between inhibitory control and diet.