Reductions in portion size and energy density of foods are additive and lead to sustained decreases in energy intake

Abstract

Background: When the portion size and energy density (in kcal/g) of a food are varied simultaneously in a single meal, each influences energy intake independently.

Objective: We aimed to determine how the effects of portion size and energy density combine to influence energy intake and satiety over multiple meals for 2 d.

Design: In a crossover design, 24 young women were provided with meals and snacks for 2 consecutive days per week for 4 wk; all foods were consumed ad libitum. Across the 4 sessions, the subjects were served the same 2 daily menus, but all foods were varied in portion size and energy density between a standard level (100%) and a reduced level (75%).

Results: Reducing the portion size and energy density of all foods led to significant and independent decreases in energy intake over 2 d (P < 0.0001). A 25% decrease in portion size led to a 10% decrease in energy intake (231 kcal/d), and a 25% decrease in energy density led to a 24% decrease in energy intake (575 kcal/d). The effects on energy intake were additive and were sustained from meal to meal. Despite the large variation in energy intake, there were no significant differences in the ratings of hunger and fullness across conditions over the 2 d.

Conclusions: Reductions in portion size and energy density independently decreased ad libitum energy intake in women when commonly consumed foods were served over 2 d. Reductions in both portion size and energy density can help to moderate energy intake without increased hunger.

Figures

FIGURE 1

Mean (±SE) effects of food portion size, regardless of energy density condition, on the intake and energy density of the food consumed. The 24 women were served 2-d menus that varied in portion size and energy density. Data were analyzed by using a mixed linear model with repeated measures. *Significantly different from 100% portion size condition, P < 0.0001.

FIGURE 2

Mean (±SE) effects of food energy density, regardless of portion size condition, on the intake and energy density of the food consumed. The 24 women were served 2-d menus that varied in portion size and energy density. Data were analyzed by using a mixed linear model with repeated measures. *Significantly different from 100% energy density condition, P < 0.0001.

FIGURE 3

Mean (±SE) cumulative energy intakes by meal for 24 women who were served 2-d menus that varied in portion size and energy density (ED). Data were analyzed by using a mixed linear model with repeated measures. All means at a given time point were significantly different, P ≤ 0.003.