Association between daily smartphone use and consumption: Should we put the phones down?

Abstract

Previous research has established that eating while viewing television is related to increased calorie consumption. However, despite the growing prevalence of smartphone use in daily life, very little research has investigated the relationship between phone use and eating behavior. Moreover, what little research exists has all been laboratory-based. The present study sought to fill this research gap by investigating smartphone use and eating behavior in everyday life. One hundred and thirty eight participants logged all foods and drinks consumed using MyFitnessPal and submitted smartphone screen time data for three consecutive days (Thursday through Saturday). Results revealed no significant associations between smartphone use and calorie consumption on any of the three study days. Additionally, morning phone use did not predict calories eaten during subsequent meals on any day. The type of phone use (e.g., social networking, reading, etc.) was also not related to total daily calorie intake. These findings on eating behavior in daily life contradict laboratory research, suggesting that smartphone use may not promote increased calorie intake in the same way that television viewing does.