Eating behavior traits across thyroid function groups in Saudi adults: a cross-sectional study

Thyroid dysfunction is known to impact metabolic rate and body weight, yet its relationship with eating behavior remains underexplored in Saudi adults. This study explores the differences in appetitive traits across self-reported thyroid status groups using the validated Arabic version of the Adult Eating Behavior Questionnaire (AEBQ-Ar).

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 439 adults in Saudi Arabia (median age = 39 years, median BMI = 29.06 kg/m², females = 59.9%). Participants self-reported their thyroid diagnosis status (normal, hypothyroid, or hyperthyroid), demographic data, and eating behaviors using AEBQ-Ar. General Linear Model regression analyses were used to assess differences in eating behavior subscales across self-reported thyroid groups, adjusting for age, sex, and BMI with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

After adjustment for covariates, both the self-reported hypothyroid and hyperthyroid groups reported significantly higher emotional overeating (β = 1.032 and β = 1.198, respectively; both p < 0.001), hunger (β = 0.696 and β = 0.780; both p < 0.001), satiety responsiveness (β = 0.464 and β = 0.761; both p < 0.001), and slowness in eating (β = 0.511 and β = 0.711; both p < 0.001) compared with individuals reporting normal thyroid function. Food fussiness was higher in the self-reported hypothyroid group compared with the normal group (β = 0.196, p = 0.006). No other traits differed significantly between the self-reported hypothyroid and hyperthyroid groups.

Self-reported thyroid dysfunction was associated with higher emotional overeating, hunger, satiety responsiveness, and slower eating. Because thyroid function tests and treatment data were not collected, these findings reflect associations with self-reported status rather than confirmed current function. Nevertheless, clinicians may consider assessing eating behaviors in patients with thyroid disorders. Future studies should include biochemical confirmation and treatment history.