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Published on: May 24, 2018
Sex differences in acute energy intake regulation
Brenda M Davy1, Emily L Van Walleghen, Jeb S Orr
1Department of Human Nutrition, Foods and Exercise, 221 Wallace Hall (0430), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. bdavy@vt.edu
Appetite
|March 21, 2007
Summary
Energy intake compensation after a yogurt preload was more accurate in men than women. This suggests males have better energy intake regulation, potentially protecting females from long-term weight gain.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Human Physiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Accurate energy intake regulation is crucial for maintaining energy balance.
- Sex differences in appetite regulation and energy intake compensation are not fully understood.
- Understanding these differences can inform weight management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare energy intake compensation accuracy between males and females.
- To investigate the influence of a yogurt preload on energy intake and appetite regulation.
- To examine sex differences in hunger, satiety, and glycemic response.
Main Methods:
- Healthy young men and women participated in a controlled feeding study.
- Subjects consumed a standardized lunch meal after receiving either a yogurt preload or no preload.
- Energy intake, hunger/fullness ratings, and blood glucose levels were measured.
Main Results:
- Males demonstrated significantly more accurate energy intake compensation compared to females (86.2% vs. 73.6%).
- No sex differences were observed in subjective hunger or fullness ratings.
- Males exhibited a higher glycemic response to the preload and subsequent meal.
Conclusions:
- Energy intake regulation is more precise in males under acute feeding conditions.
- Females may have a relative inability to regulate energy intake, potentially contributing to weight gain.
- Further research is needed to explore the long-term implications of these findings.
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