Myth: Eating Speed Does Not Increase Obesity Risk
Truth: This Statement is False
The rising prevalence of obesity has led to increased scrutiny of various contributing factors, including eating speed. Research indicates a significant association between the rate of food consumption and obesity levels. Specifically, studies show that obese children tend to eat their meals more quickly compared to their non-obese peers.
Research Findings from the GUSTO Cohort
The Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort study revealed that overweight and obese children not only consumed their food at a faster pace but also exhibited specific eating behaviors. These children took larger bites and chewed less between them, which contributed to their faster eating rates.
Additionally, the study found that these children displayed a higher motivation for food consumption and had a decreased sensitivity to feelings of fullness. This evidence underscores how eating behaviors can impact a child’s body composition, potentially influencing their risk for obesity later in life.
Learn More
To delve deeper into the relationship between eating speed and obesity risk, click here.
Reference
Fogel A, Goh AT, Fries LR, et al. Faster eating rates are associated with higher energy intakes during an ad libitum meal, higher BMI, and greater adiposity among 4.5-year-old children: results from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort. Br J Nutr. 2017;117(7):1042-1051. doi:10.1017/S0007114517000848.