Examination of different definitions of snacking frequency and associations with weight status among U.S. adults

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234355
• Publication Date: 2020-06-17T17:30:23Z
• Authors: Alexandra E. Cowan; Kelly A. Higgins; Jennifer O. Fisher; Gina L. Tripicchio; Richard D. Mattes; Peishan Zou; Regan L. Bailey
• Keywords: Snacking; Weight management; Association (psychology)

Snacks, while widely consumed in the United States (U.S.), do not have a standard definition, complicating research to understand associations, if any, with weight status. Therefore, purpose of this study was examine association between snacking frequency and status using various definitions that exist scientific literature among U.S. adults (NHANES 2013-2016; ≥20y n = 9,711). Four event-based were operationalized including participant-defined snacks, eating events outside meals, operationally defined snacks based on absolute thresholds energy (>50 kcal). Weight examined body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, sagittal abdominal diameter risk. Logistic regression models associations Outcomes varied by definition snack employed, but majority findings null. Mean from significantly higher women obesity compared normal when as any event typical mealtime (i.e. other than breakfast, lunch, dinner, super, brunch), regardless whether or it contributed ≥50 kcal. Further investigation into ingestive behaviors may influence relationship is needed.