SNAC study-satiety, nutrition and appetite in children.

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a growing concern internationally. For prevention and treatment of obesity it would be beneficial to provide nutritional advice promoting the consumption of foods that provide a high level of satiety ('fullness') and which are low in energy ('calories'). The major nutrients in food: carbohydrate, protein and fat (i.e. macronutrients), influence the body's internal signals that control appetite. Seven obese and twelve healthy weight adolescents 12-19 years were randomised to complete 2 testing days involving the consumption of a high carbohydrate (79%) or high protein (55%) breakfast. Self reported hunger and fullness, and appetite hormones or energy expenditure were collected postprandially over 4 hours. This was followed by an ad libitum lunch and a 24 hour food recall. Preliminary results to date indicate differences in appetite between groups. Following the high protein breakfast, the obese group were significantly less hungry (p = 0.024) compared to the healthy weight group after 4 hours. Following the high carbohydrate breakfast, the obese group consumed significantly less at the buffet lunch per kg of body weight (p = 0.034) compared to the healthy weight group. The associations seen thus far indicate a relationship between macronutrient intake, body weight and subjective appetite sensations. Further recruitment to achieve the desired subject numbers, and ultimate analysis of the full set of outcomes including appetite hormones and energy expenditure will generate quality evidence towards the understanding and development of dietary advice for children.