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Beyond Sex Differences: Body Composition and Dietary Behaviors
Cassandra Evans1,2, Jaime Tartar3, Jonathan Banks3
1Department of Health and Human Performance, Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL 33328, USA.
Muscles (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 22, 2025
Summary
This study found significant sex differences in dietary behaviors and their link to body composition. Females reported more emotional eating, while males craved fatty foods more, with both linked to higher body fat.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Human Physiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Dietary behaviors significantly impact nutrient intake and body composition, crucial for overall health.
- Understanding sex differences in these behaviors is vital for targeted health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex-specific associations between dietary behaviors and body composition in adults.
- To identify how factors like cognitive restraint, emotional eating, and food cravings differ between males and females in relation to body fat.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design involving adult participants.
- Assessment of dietary behaviors using the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R18) and Food Cravings Inventory (FCI).
- Body composition analysis via bioelectrical impedance analysis.
Main Results:
- Females exhibited higher levels of cognitive restraint and emotional eating compared to males.
- Males reported greater cravings for fatty foods and a higher frequency of acting on these cravings.
- Body fat percentage showed a positive correlation with emotional eating and cognitive restraint in both sexes.
Conclusions:
- Significant sex differences exist in dietary behaviors, including emotional eating, cognitive restraint, and food cravings.
- Both gender and body fat percentage are key determinants influencing various dietary behaviors.
- Findings highlight the need for sex-specific approaches in understanding and managing dietary habits and body composition.
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