Changes In the Activation of Supra-hyoid Muscles and Heart Rate of College Students During Food Intake According to Watching Mukbang

Objectives: Watching mukbang contributes to changes in eating habits and related behaviors. In this study, we aimed to analyze the changes in supra-hyoid muscles′ activation and heart rate of college students according to watching mukbang. Methods: The study participants were 30 college students. During the watching of mukbang, water, and yogurt were allowed to be consumed, and then the changes in suprahyoid muscles′ activation and heart rate were analyzed. Surface EMG of VatalStim Plus was used to measure the supra-hyoid muscles′ activation and the average, maximum, and minimum values were measured. An Apple Watch measured heart rate and average heart rate was determined. Results: Through watching mukbang, the average and maximum values of the supra-hyoid muscles′ activation showed a statistically significant increase in the case of both food intakes. Conclusions: During food intake, watching mukbang induces changes in the supra-hyoid muscles′ activation. Therefore, the changes in food intake should be considered according to the increase in the supra-hyoid muscles′ activation due to the influence of watching mukbang. Follow-up studies to verify effects on eating behavior and intake should be conducted.