Blood, Gore and...Chowing Down?

You would think that stomach-turning murders and hanging-on-the-edge-of-your-seat crimes scenes would turn off the average viewer’s appetite, not to mention make them a bit queasy for the evening.
 
But an interesting new study in the Journal of Consumer Research shows that people who watch “Law & Order,” “Cold Case,” “CSI” and similar shows might be at risk for stuffing their faces and shopping ‘til they drop.
 
It sounds like a scary ending to a murder mystery...one that leaves you with a big behind and a maxed-out credit card. But the study, titled “Sweet Escape,” shows that people who enjoy programs that highlight doom are reminded of their own imminent death, therefore leading them to spend and eat more.
 
Like any good investigation, there are alternate theories. Some doctors think mania, bipolar conditions and several other psychological reasons, like anxiety, as reasons for overconsuming. A need for distraction or to fill a void, or even a history of obesity, all play a part.  
 
We’re curious: Have you ever felt the urge to overeat or buy things online after watching "Law and Order?" [MSNBC]