OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

Eating pleasurable foods is most likely to result in which outcome?

1. Increased feelings of hunger

2. Feelings of pleasure, reinforcing the behavior

3. Immediate insulin response

4. Altered mood and energy levels

The correct answer is: Feelings of pleasure, reinforcing the behavior

Eating pleasurable foods primarily activates the brain's reward system, leading to an increase in feelings of pleasure. This pleasure serves as a reinforcing mechanism that encourages individuals to seek out and consume these foods again in the future. The positive experience associated with the taste and texture of enjoyable foods can trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which enhances feelings of happiness and satisfaction. The aspect of reinforcement is crucial because it plays a significant role in human behavior. When we experience pleasure from eating, it not only satisfies hunger but also creates a desire to repeat that behavior, establishing a pattern of seeking out similar foods for their pleasurable attributes. This connection between enjoyment and behavior can influence eating habits over time, often leading to preferences for certain foods that deliver this pleasurable experience. In contrast, while immediate insulin response is a physiological reaction to the consumption of sugar or carbohydrates, it does not inherently relate to the feelings of pleasure. Likewise, altered mood and energy levels can occur due to various factors, but they are not the direct outcome of seeking out pleasurable foods. Increased feelings of hunger is unlikely after consuming enjoyable foods, as they tend to be satisfying and lead to a temporary reduction in hunger.