Energy Intake Changes in the US: Portion Size, Eating Occasions, and Energy Density
Author Information
Author(s): Kiyah J. Duffey, Barry M. Popkin
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
What are the contributions of energy density, portion size, and eating occasions to changes in daily total energy intake in the US from 1977 to 2006?
Conclusion
Changes in eating occasions and portion sizes have accounted for most of the increase in daily energy intake among US adults over the past 30 years.
Supporting Evidence
- Total daily energy intake increased by 570 kcal/d from 1977–78 to 2003–06.
- The average number of daily eating occasions increased from 3.8 to 4.9.
- Changes in portion size contributed to an increase in energy intake, but their impact decreased over time.
Takeaway
People in the US are eating more often and in larger portions, which is making them consume more calories than before.
Methodology
The study used cross-sectional data from four nationally representative food surveys to analyze changes in total energy intake.
Potential Biases
Self-reporting may lead to underestimation of calorie intake, especially from unhealthy foods.
Limitations
The study's findings may be affected by self-reporting biases and methodological changes in dietary assessment over time.
Participant Demographics
Adults aged 19 and older, with varying demographics across four survey years.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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