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Lombardo M, Feraco A, Armani A, Camajani E, Gorini S, Strollo R, Padua E, Caprio M, Bellia A. Gender differences in body composition, dietary patterns, and physical activity: insights from a cross-sectional study. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1414217. [PMID: 39055386 PMCID: PMC11271261 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1414217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study investigates the interplay between body composition, dietary patterns, and physical activity across genders, focusing on gender-specific differences in food preferences and eating behaviors. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing targeted nutritional and lifestyle interventions. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,333 participants (58.7% female, 41.3% male), aged 18-65 years. Participants were categorized into tertiles based on their fat mass to fat-free mass (FM-to-FFM) ratio. Data on dietary choices, eating behaviors, and physical activity were collected and analyzed to identify gender-specific trends. Results Significant gender-specific differences were observed in food preferences and eating behaviors. Males experienced greater hunger in the late afternoon, while females felt more hunger in the morning. Males showed a preference for processed and red meats, whereas females preferred cooked vegetables. Eating behaviors such as meal skipping, uncontrolled eating, nocturnal eating, and taste preferences (sweet or salty) varied distinctly between FM-to-FFM tertiles and genders. Higher FM-to-FFM ratios correlated with lower physical activity levels, particularly in strength training and general sports engagement. Discussion These findings highlight the complex interactions between body composition, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors, emphasizing gender-specific differences. The results suggest that body composition and BMI significantly impact health-related behaviors, necessitating tailored interventions to address these differences and promote healthier lifestyles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Lombardo
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Feraco
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorini
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elvira Padua
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfonso Bellia
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
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Gal AM, Arhire LI, Gherasim A, Graur M, Nita O, Dumitrascu O, Soimaru RM, Popa AD, Mihalache L. Association between Diet Quality and Eating Behavior in Type 2 Diabetes Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:2047. [PMID: 38999795 PMCID: PMC11243329 DOI: 10.3390/nu16132047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a global epidemic. To effectively control T2DM, individuals must adhere to a high-quality diet that encompasses not only healthy dietary patterns but also promotes positive eating behaviors. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 314 patients with T2DM, and we evaluated the diet quality and also examined the associations between eating behavior, diet quality, and anthropometric and clinical factors in T2DM patients. We used the Diet Quality Index-International and Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire to assess dietary characteristics. We found that women had a significantly higher diet quality than men (61.40 vs. 58.68, p = 0.002) but were also more prone to emotional eating (2.00 vs. 1.53, p < 0.001) and restrained eating (2.39 vs. 2.05, p = 0.002). Restrained eating correlated with duration of diabetes (r = -0.169, p = 0.003), body mass index (r = 0.182, p = 0.001), and external eating with glycated hemoglobin (r = 0.114, p = 0.044). Patients with emotional eating had a higher vitamin C adequacy score (β = 0.117, p = 0.045). External eating was positively associated with grain adequacy (β = 0.208, p < 0.001) and negatively associated with empty-calorie food moderation score (β = -0.125, p = 0.032). For restrained eating, we found associations with vitamin C adequacy (β = -0.138, p = 0.017) and fruit adequacy (β = 0.125, p = 0.033). In conclusion, the results of this study provide valuable insight into dietary behavior and emphasize the importance of promoting healthy eating habits for T2DM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Maria Gal
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
| | - Lidia Iuliana Arhire
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Andreea Gherasim
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Mariana Graur
- Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
| | - Otilia Nita
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Oana Dumitrascu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Raluca Meda Soimaru
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
| | - Alina Delia Popa
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Laura Mihalache
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.M.G.); (A.G.); (O.N.); (O.D.); (R.M.S.); (A.D.P.); (L.M.)
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Chapple CI, Burnett AJ, Woods JL, Russell CG. A Cross-Sectional Study of Sports Food Consumption Patterns, Experiences, and Perceptions amongst Non-Athletes in Australia. Nutrients 2024; 16:1101. [PMID: 38674792 PMCID: PMC11053821 DOI: 10.3390/nu16081101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Sports foods are designed for athletes, yet their availability, type, and sales have increased over the past decade, likely driven by non-athlete use. This could lead to detrimental health outcomes via over/misuse or unwanted side effects. The aim of this study was to describe sports food consumption patterns and associated drivers, consumption reasons, perception of risks, and side effects experienced amongst non-athletes in Australia. In 2022, n = 307 non-athlete Australian adults (18-65 years) completed an online cross-sectional survey including closed-ended (consumption patterns, factors, and exercise participation) and open-ended questions (reasons for consumption, risk perception, and side effects experienced). Descriptive statistics (frequency and percent) described the sample. Ordinal logistic regression was used for univariate associations and a multivariate model was used to determine relationships between sports food consumption proxy and significant univariate associations. The themes were analysed via inductive thematic analysis using NVivo 14. Females consumed sports foods most frequently, 65% of participants consumed three or more sports foods, and participants with higher sports food consumption/frequency were less likely to perceive risks or experience side effects. The main reason for consumption was protein intake, digestion/stomach issues were the main perceived risks, and the main side effect was bloating. Despite understanding the risks and side effects, non-athlete consumers continue to use numerous sports foods, which appear to be influenced by sociodemographic factors and packaging labels. Tighter regulation of packaging-label information would ensure safer and more informed consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celeste I. Chapple
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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Kelly NR, Doty KJ, Guidinger C, Folger A, Luther GM, Giuliani NR. Social desirability bias is related to children's energy intake in a laboratory test meal paradigm. Appetite 2024; 195:107235. [PMID: 38296111 PMCID: PMC10922645 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Dietary intake is notoriously difficult to measure in children. Laboratory test meals address some of the methodological concerns of self-report methods, but may also be susceptible to social desirability bias, referring to the tendency for individuals to adjust their behaviors in order to be perceived more positively. The aim of the current study was to evaluate whether social desirability bias was associated with children's energy intake during a laboratory test meal, and whether this association varied by food type (total caloric intake, snack food intake, fruit/vegetable intake) and sex. A total of 82 children (M age = 9.45 ± 0.85; 50 % girls; 84.1 % rural; 85.4 % White) completed several surveys, including the Children's Social Desirability Scale and had their body composition measured. At lunchtime, they were granted access to a multi-array test meal (>5000 kcal). After adjusting for lean mass, fat mass, depressive symptoms, and parental food restriction, children who reported higher social desirability bias consumed fewer calories from snack foods (B = -11.58, p = .009, semi-partial correlation = -0.28). Boys with higher social desirability bias consumed less calories from fruits and vegetables (B = -6.47, p = .010, semi-partial correlation = -0.411); this association was not significant in girls. The desire to be perceived in a positive manner may influence children's eating behaviors in experimental paradigms. Replication studies with larger, more diverse pediatric samples are needed, as are strategies to reduce the effects of social desirability bias on test meal intake in order to enhance the validity of this dietary assessment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichole R Kelly
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, 1215 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, 6217 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States.
| | - Kelly Jean Doty
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, 1215 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, 6217 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Claire Guidinger
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, 1215 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, 6217 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Austin Folger
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, 1215 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, 6217 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Gabriella M Luther
- Counseling Psychology and Human Services, University of Oregon, 1215 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States; The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, 6217 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Nicole R Giuliani
- The Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, 6217 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States; Special Education and Clinical Sciences, University of Oregon, 1215 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
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Feraco A, Armani A, Amoah I, Guseva E, Camajani E, Gorini S, Strollo R, Padua E, Caprio M, Lombardo M. Assessing gender differences in food preferences and physical activity: a population-based survey. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1348456. [PMID: 38445208 PMCID: PMC10912473 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1348456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Food preferences are influenced by various factors, such as culture, age, and gender. The relationship between food tastes, meal preferences, and eating habits has been studied extensively in recent years; however, research on gender differences in these fields still needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to investigate gender differences in food preferences and eating habits through self-administered questionnaires in a large Italian population sample. Methods The online survey included questions on food tastes, meal preferences, eating habits, and sport involvement. Results The results of the study underline significant gender-specific dietary tendencies among the 2198 participants (1314 females and 884 males, average age 41.1 ± 12.7 yrs). The majority of subjects were in the annual income range between €20,000 and €40,000. Our analysis reveals significant gender differences in dietary preferences and eating habits. Men prefer red and processed meat, with significantly higher consumption rates than women. Women, on the other hand, show a greater inclination towards vegetables, whole grains, tofu, and high-cocoa-content dark chocolate, aligning with healthier food choices. The study also found differences in eating behaviors, including the frequency of meals, snacking habits, and hunger patterns: women tend to eat more frequently and report higher levels of hunger in the morning, while men tend to skip snacks. Furthermore, differences extend to eating contexts, such as the speed of eating, eating out, and eating alone, with men more likely to eat quickly and dine out. Episodes of uncontrolled eating without hunger also differ, with women reporting these behaviors more frequently than men. In addition, the analysis of sports preferences showed distinct patterns, with a lower percentage of women playing sports and those who do play sports preferring endurance and strength training, while men prefer strength training and endurance sports. Discussion These findings elucidate the complex interplay of biological, cultural, and gender-based factors in shaping dietary preferences and eating behaviors. In particular, our study reveals that gender dynamics significantly influence food choice and eating habits: women tend to choose healthier foods and eat regular meals, while men show preferences for specific tastes and meal-related behaviors. This analysis underscores the nuanced differences between male and female dietary patterns, influenced not only by inherent biological factors such as genetics and hormonal responses but also by societal norms and cultural contexts. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of integrating different perspectives, thus providing valuable insights into the development of public health strategies and tailored nutrition interventions aimed at chronic disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Feraco
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Armani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Isaac Amoah
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Elena Guseva
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorini
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Elvira Padua
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, San Raffaele Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Lombardo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
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Deslippe AL, Bergeron C, Cohen TR. Boys and girls differ in their rationale behind eating: a systematic review of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations in dietary habits across countries. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1256189. [PMID: 37841404 PMCID: PMC10570531 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1256189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Boys' and girls' food habits diverge in adolescence (13-18 years). This contributes to unequal risks of adverse health outcomes based on sex and gender in adulthood (e.g., heart diseases in men vs. disorder eating in women). Though multi-factorial, why these dietary differences occur is unclear. Purpose To identify the reasons why adolescents' motivation behind dietary habits differs among genders. Methods Four databases were searched following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies had to use qualitative methodology and report at least one gender unique theme. Reported themes were thematically analyzed, with a sub-analysis by country where the studies were conducted. Quality appraisals were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Results In the 34 eligible articles (n = 1,694 returned) two overarching themes emerged that dictated dietary habits in adolescents: Self-motivators and Uncontrollable factors. Gender differences arose whereby girls highlighted more external motivators (e.g., eat healthier, change dietary habits around boys and be thin to fit traditional norms) over their dietary habits. In contrast, boys focused on more internal motivators (e.g., gain autonomy, eat for enjoyment and pursue gains in physical performance). This suggests that motivation underlying how boys and girls eat differs. These trends were largely consistent across countries. Conclusion Boys' and girls' food habits are not motivated by the same factors. To create more effective dietary interventions targeting health promotion, unique motivations behind food habits need to be understood and incorporated. Systematic review registration Identifier: CRD42022298077.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha L. Deslippe
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Healthy Starts, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Coralie Bergeron
- Healthy Starts, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tamara R. Cohen
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Healthy Starts, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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