Diet and life-styles are considered as the main factors that determine the high prevalence of obesity in Western societies. Although some countries have registered a decrease in fat intake, the percentage of overweight and obesity has increased. Therefore, it is thought that fat intake may not be the main factor that determines the current epidemic of obesity. The objective of a recent study conducted in Spain was to determine the role of a sedentary life-style and eating between meals (snacking) as major determinants of a recent weight change (over last 5 years).

The incidence of weight gain in a study group was determined by comparing age, physical activity in leisure time, watching television, taking a nap, smoking, snacking and the intake of macronutrients (fat, protein, carbohydrates, etc). It was found that the more physically active men were during leisure time, the less likely they were to gain weight, and this trend was present in women also. Snacking was positively associated with a higher probability of gaining weight among both men and women. CONCLUSIONS: “Our data suggest a direct association between snacking and weight gain in middle-aged people.”

Medicina Clinica. 119(2):46-52, 2002 Jun 15.