The effect of weekend eating on nutrient intakes and dietary patterns

Abstract

Limited research suggests that energy intake is greater on weekend days (Friday–Sunday) than on weekdays. The purpose of this study was to assess nutrient intake differences between weekend days and weekdays in a sample of 503 healthy, weight-stable men and women aged 30–69 years. The sample included 107 obese subjects (BMI >30). Three 24-hour dietary recalls were obtained using the USDA Automated Multiple Pass Method. Recalls, conducted 4–5 days apart, included at least one weekend day. Energy intake on weekend days compared to weekdays was higher by 13% overall (2278 ± 712 kcal vs 2468 ± 861 kcal, p<.01), and by 17% in obese subjects. The greatest increase in energy intake on weekend days compared to weekdays resulted from increased energy from fat. This was followed by increased energy from alcohol for males and increased energy from carbohydrate for females; both increases were higher for obese subjects. Differences in macronutrient intakes reported as breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack were noted. Although the contribution of energy from snacks was similar, the percentage of daily energy consumed at breakfast and dinner was increased on weekend days. These observations suggest that obesity prevention strategies should focus on weekend eating behaviors, especially for obese individuals. Furthermore, results of this study illustrate the importance of considering weekend/weekday effects in dietary assessment. Funded by ARS, USDA