Olfactory alterations in obesity

Abstract

Although the sense of smell is fundamental for the perception of food, its relationship with obesity has not been sufficiently researched. This article is a review of the literature of the relationship between olfactory function and obesity. Current evidence from animal and human studies supports the hypothesis that olfactory function is altered in obesity. Recent research indicates that individuals with obesity could have a higher sensitivity to and preference for odorant stimuli associated with energy-dense foods, and lower sensitivity to odors of foods with low caloric value and non-food odors. The study of chemosensory perception is a promising area for advancing in the understanding of the mechanisms involved in obesity.