ABSTRACT
Among the myriad factors contributing to overweight and obesity among children, the timing and distribution of energy intake across daily eating occasions (henceforth referred to as “daily eating patterns”) have been recognized as variables influencing weight status during childhood and adolescence (Table 6.1) [1]. Although daily eating patterns at the individual level are influenced by biological factors, including hunger and satiety cues and circadian rhythm, they are also influenced by environmental factors, such as social norms, culture, media exposure, family routines, and institutional settings and schedules [1-4]. Children in today’s society typically distribute their time across a wide variety of settings and activities [5], which vary in structure and opportunity for energy intake and expenditure. Taking a closer look at temporal shifts in eating patterns and the coincidence of these trends with rising obesity rates could shed light on modifiable behavioral changes that may alter energy balance.
