Self-reported vs. actual energy intake in youth with and without loss of control eating

Episodes of loss of control over eating (LOC) in children and adolescents – often characterized by the consumption of highly palatable dessert and snack-type foods – have been associated with a lack of awareness while eating that could lead to under- or over-estimation of how much food is consumed. However, little is known about the reporting accuracy of food intake in youth with and without LOC eating. One hundred fifty-six girls and boys were administered the Eating Disorder Examination to assess for the presence of LOC eating. Youth were queried regarding the amounts of foods consumed directly following a multi-item, laboratory buffet test meal. Children with LOC (n = 42) did not differ significantly from youth without LOC (n = 114) in reporting accuracy of total food intake (reported minus actual energy intake: 153.0 ± 59.6 vs. 96.9 ± 36.0 kcal; p = 0.42). However, compared to those without LOC, children with LOC were less accurate at reporting percentage of energy intake from carbohydrate (p = 0.01). Youth with LOC were also less accurate at reporting their intake of desserts (p = 0.04). Findings point to the possibility that youth with LOC may have poorer recall of sweet food consumption. Future research is required to examine whether poorer recall reflects a lack of awareness while eating palatable, sweet foods.

Research Highlights► Youth with and without LOC did not differ in reporting accuracy of total intakes. ► Youth with LOC were less accurate at reporting percentage of carbohydrate intake. ► Youth with LOC were less accurate at reporting dessert intake.