Could a zap to the brain turn you into a salad fan?

FROM fasting to counting calories, many of us have tried countless diets but they all have one similar flaw – they require willpower.

Now scientists may be able to zap our brains to make us choose healthy fruit instead of reaching for the biscuit tin.

Research shows that a small electric current can make a monkey choose a healthier option. In the study, scientists were able to alter the macaques’ preferences for certain types of fruit juice by stimulating their brain cells. Recreating the effect in humans is possible in theory – but would involve surgically implanting electrodes into someone’s head.

The team, led by Washington University School of Medicine, knew monkeys love lemonade but dislike watermelon juice.

They found that when presented with both options, a weak electrical current made the monkeys choose the nutritious watermelon juice. Lead author Professor Camillo Padoa-Schioppa said: ‘In theory, the technique would work in humans, encouraging them to choose a healthy option over sweets and chocolate.’

She hopes it could be recreated in humans by placing painless electrodes on the head.

The research, published in the journal Nature, involved three macaques given a choice of juices. The monkeys generally preferred certain flavours, such as lemonade. But when they were given lemonade and a greater volume of watermelon juice, they opted for the latter when their brain was zapped.

These findings could help those suffering from depression or alcoholism make healthier choices. Professor Padoa-Schioppa said: ‘Even major life decisions like which career to choose probably utilise this circuit.’