Eating Behaviours of Polish and Portuguese Adults-Cross-Sectional Surveys

Eating behaviours affect energy intake through the types and amounts of foods chosen and decisions about the beginning and ending of the eating process. This study aims to determine and compare the eating behaviours of Polish and Portuguese adults and, in addition, to establish the correlations between daily behaviours, food-approaches and food-avoidance behaviours, and BMI in both populations. The study was conducted between January 2023 and March 2023. Participants from Poland and Portugal responded to the AEBQ questionnaire and questions on eating habits and body-image self-perception. The research tool was a website-based survey questionnaire with single-choice questions. No significant differences related to BMI levels were found between the Polish and Portuguese adults in terms of their eating behaviours. Both groups were characterised by the increased intensity of their food-approach behaviours, which was directly correlated with increases in BMI. Greater snacking intensity and binge drinking were associated with higher BMI. The study revealed an increased prevalence of binge drinking in the Polish sample. The study also confirmed a higher frequency of food-approach behaviours in overweight and/or obese individuals and uncontrolled calorie intake in participants imposing dietary restrictions for weight loss. Nutrition education is needed to improve eating habits and food choices, as well as to prevent overweight and obesity in adults.

Automated summary

Eating behaviours play a significant role in determining energy intake and can be influenced by food choices and decisions concerning the initiation and termination of eating. This study aimed to examine and compare the eating behaviours of Polish and Portuguese adults and explore the associations between daily behaviours, food-approaches and food-avoidance behaviours, and BMI in both populations. The survey was conducted using a website-based questionnaire involving single-choice questions. No significant differences in eating behaviours related to BMI levels were found between the Polish and Portuguese adults. However, both groups exhibited an increased intensity of food-approach behaviours, which directly correlated with higher BMI. Binge drinking and increased snacking intensity were also associated with higher BMI, with a higher prevalence of binge drinking observed in the Polish sample. The study highlights the importance of nutrition education in improving eating habits and food choices to prevent overweight and obesity in adults.