Environmental strategies for portion control in children. (1st May 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Robinson, Thomas N.; Matheson, Donna M.
• Is Part Of: Appetite. Volume 88(2015)
• Page Start: 33
• Page End: 38
• Publication Date: 2015-05-01
• Subjects: Portion size -- Children -- Dishes -- Bowls -- Glasses -- Television; Food habits -- Periodicals; Appetite -- Periodicals; Appetite disorders -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 306.4613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2014.12.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6663

Abstract

Highlights: Large portions lead to greater food and energy intake relative to small portions. Promising strategies include using tall, thin, and small volume glasses and mugs. Promising strategies include using small plates with rims, bowls and serving utensils. Promising strategies include reducing total screen time and eating with screens. Further experimental research in real world settings is needed. Abstract: Evidence from laboratory and field studies indicates that large portions lead to greater food and energy intake relative to small portions. However, most children and adults demonstrate limited abilities to estimate and control the amounts of food they serve and consume. Five potential environmental strategies appear promising for improving portion control in children: (1) using tall, thin, and small volume glasses and mugs, (2) using smaller diameter and volume plates, bowls and serving utensils, (3) using plates with rims, (4) reducing total television and other screen watching and (5) reducing or eliminating eating while watching television and/or other screens. Further experimental research in real world settings is needed to test these interventions as strategies for portion control and their roles in prevention and treatment of obesity.