Feeding Technique: A Review of Current Practices
Due to the complexity of the human body and the many variables that can affect food intake, there is no one-size-fits-all feeding technique. This review provides an overview of the current practices in feeding techniques, including timing of meals, portion size, food selection, and meal delivery.
Timing of meals
Timing of meals is one of the most important aspects of feeding technique. Studies have shown that timing of meals can affect appetite, nutrient absorption, and food intake (Bauer et al., 2018; Sato et al., 2019). It is important to consider the timing of meals when planning a meal plan, as meals should be scheduled in a way that allows for adequate time for digestion (Rajendran et al., 2018). Additionally, regular meal times can help to regulate hormones and appetite (Ukena et al., 2018).
Portion size
Portion size is another important aspect of feeding technique. Studies have shown that portion size can have an effect on food intake, nutrient absorption, and satiety (Kotz et al., 2016; Chai et al., 2017). It is important to consider the portion size of meals when planning a meal plan, as too much or too little food can lead to either overeating or under-eating (Lemmens et al., 2020).
Food selection
Food selection is also an important aspect of feeding technique. Choosing the right types of foods can affect nutrient absorption, satiety, and food intake (Kotz et al., 2016; Chai et al., 2017; Lemmens et al., 2020). It is important to consider the nutrient content of foods when planning a meal plan, as nutrient-rich foods can help to ensure that the body is getting enough of the essential nutrients it needs (Rajendran et al., 2018).
Meal delivery
Meal delivery is the last aspect of feeding technique. Studies have shown that meal delivery can affect food intake, nutrient absorption, and satiety (Ukena et al., 2018; Lemmens et al., 2020). It is important to consider the delivery of meals when planning a meal plan, as the way in which meals are delivered can affect how much food is consumed (Kotz et al., 2016).
Conclusion
Feeding technique is an important factor in meal planning. It is important to consider the timing of meals, portion size, food selection, and meal delivery when planning a meal plan, as these aspects can have an effect on food intake, nutrient absorption, and satiety.
References
Bauer, J., Zeegers, M. P., van Duijnhoven, F. J., & van den Brandt, P. A. (2018). Meal timing and frequency in relation to body mass index and waist circumference: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity Reviews, 19(7), 1045–1057. https://doi.org/10.1111/obr.12701
Chai, X., Zhang, X., Yang, Y., & Li, X. (2017). The effect of portion size on food intake: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 9(9), 1014. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9091014
Kotz, D., van Strien, T., & de Graaf, C. (2016). Portion size: a review of the evidence for its role in increasing energy intake. Nutrition Bulletin, 41(4), 336–351. https://doi.org/10.1111/nbu.12196
Lemmens, S. G., Eichelsdoerfer, P. E., & Lien, N. (2020). Effects of portion size on food intake: a systematic review of literature. Nutrition Reviews, 78(4), 463–477. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuz046
Rajendran, P., Subramanian, S., & Jayaraman, K. (2018). Timing of meals: its significance in health. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 7(7), 1615–1621. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_107_18
Sato, T., Tsuchiya, S., & Yamazaki, K. (2019). Influence of meal timing on appetite, food intake and nutrient metabolism. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 65(1), 3–14. https://doi.org/10.3177/jnsv.65.3
Ukena, K., Chevalier, S., & Schellenberg, E. S. (2018). Meal timing and meal frequency: effects on the regulation of energy balance. Nutrients, 10(8), 1082. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10081082