Nutrition Correlates of Obesity: Eating Behaviors and Physical Activity Pattern among Adult Men and Women

Background: Etiology of obesity varies among populations, eating and activity behaviors contribute to weight gain. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify eating behaviors and activity pattern of adults with different body weights. Mathod: This Study considers 60 normal and 140 overweight and obese male and females. Subjects in varying body weights were selected through Purposive sampling. Relevant data obtained using questionnaires. Standard techniques used to measure height, weight, skin fold thickness. Results: Activity pattern and activity cues for normal, overweight and obese male and female were similar. Eating behaviors varied, overweight and obese individuals had 4-5 meals per day against 2-3 meals in normal weight people. Munching habit was significantly higher in obese and overweight subjects and commenced in childhood. Eating while watching TV, chatting and study were higher among obese. The frequency of eating different foods was not different in the 2 groups. Eating cues showed significant differences. Thinking about food, cannot wait for eating, at least taste, pleasure in eating was significantly higher among overweight and obese as compared to normal. Body fat percent was significantly higher in obese individuals. Conclusion: It seems that Poor activity cues and high eating cues and munching habit influence weight gain, considered as behavior change in weight management.