Abstract
BackgroundThis study experimentally examined the effects of repeated exposure to different meal portion sizes on energy intake.MethodsNineteen employees of a county medical center were given free box lunches for two months, one month each of 1528 and 767 average kcal. Foods were identical in the two conditions, but differed in portion size. Meals averaged 44% calories from fat. Participants self-reported how much of each lunch was eaten. Unannounced 24-hour dietary recalls were also conducted by phone twice per week during each exposure period.ResultsMean energy intake at the lunch meal was 332 kcal/day higher in large lunch than in small lunch periods (p < .001). Mean 24-hour energy intake was 278 kcal/day higher in large versus small lunch periods (p < .001). There was no evidence of compensation over time. Average weight change over the month of large and small lunches was 0.64 ± 1.16 kg and 0.06 ± 1.03 kg, respectively, about what would be expected with the observed differences in energy intake.ConclusionThis study suggests that chronic exposure to large portion size meals can result in sustained increases in energy intake and may contribute to body weight increases over time.
Highlights
This study experimentally examined the effects of repeated exposure to different meal portion sizes on energy intake
One change in the food marketplace that has attracted particular attention is food portion sizes, which have grown in an increasing number of food products sold in stores, vending machines, and restaurants, as well as in foods served at home [2]
To assess whether chronic exposure to larger portion sizes can cause chronic increases in energy consumption, the present study presented study subjects with meals of different portion sizes in a naturalistic setting for a sustained period of time and observed energy intake at meals, daily energy intake overall, and body weight
Summary
This study experimentally examined the effects of repeated exposure to different meal portion sizes on energy intake. Over the last 20 to 30 years, there have been dramatic increases in the prevalence of obesity in all segments of the US population [1]. Exact causes of this trend remain unclear, but increased food intake and/or decreased physical activity are certainly the proximal causes. In one study in a restaurant setting, adults purchasing a larger entrée portion increased entrée energy intake by 43% and of the entire meal intake by 25% [5]. Energy intake in snacks increases as package size increases [8]
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