Accuracy of Calorie Perceptions in Individuals Who Are Attempting to Lose Weight (P16-062-19)

Abstract

ObjectivesDietary approaches for weight loss are often focused on maintaining a recommended caloric intake aimed at creating an energy deficit. This assumes individuals can accurately estimate caloric content of foods and beverages, yet little is known about the validity of such assumptions. This study assessed the accuracy of calorie perceptions for individual food items and mixed meals in participants who were trying to lose weight (dieters) vs. not trying to lose weight (non-dieters). We hypothesized that dieters would be more accurate at estimating calories in individual food items and mixed meals. MethodsA cross-sectional survey assessed calorie perceptions using both visual food displays and written calorie perception questions for 32 foods, beverages, and mixed meals. Participants were asked demographic questions and if they were currently attempting to lose weight. ResultsA total of 586 participants (18–81y) completed the survey; 63.3% (n = 371) were dieters. The majority of participants were female (n = 389) and Hispanic (n = 425). There were no significant differences between groups in under or overestimation for the majority of foods, beverages, and mixed meals with the exception of red and white wine. A lower percentage of dieters (58.4%) vs. non-dieters (71.4%) underestimated the calories in a glass of white wine (P < 0.01), but a higher percentage of dieters (41.6%) vs. non-dieters (28.6%) overestimated calories in white wine (P < 0.01). There was a similar pattern for red wine (P < 0.05). ConclusionsAccuracy of calorie perceptions do not differ between dieters and non-dieters for the majority of items. An inability to accurately estimate calories in foods despite active efforts to lose weight may contribute to limited efficacy of weight loss efforts. Next research questions include whether dieters can be trained to better estimate caloric content of foods, and if that would positively influence weight loss. Funding SourcesThis study was partially supported by funding from the Paso del Norte Health Foundation.