Researchers asked people how hungry or full they felt using a simple line scale after giving them gum with nicotine and/or caffeine.
Scientific Claim
Appetite sensations, including hunger and fullness, were measured using visual analogue scales in response to controlled doses of nicotine and caffeine in a short-term (2-hour) intervention.
Original Statement
“Appetite sensations were measured using visual analogue scales.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
understated
Study Design Support
Design cannot support claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
This is a methodological descriptor, not a scientific claim about biological effects. It should not be elevated to a causal or correlational claim. The abstract states it plainly, so no correction is needed beyond lowering importance.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The appetite‐suppressant effect of nicotine is enhanced by caffeine *
Scientists gave people gum with different amounts of nicotine and caffeine and asked them to rate how hungry or full they felt using a line scale—and found that nicotine made people less hungry, and caffeine made that effect even stronger.