Is Snack Consumption Related to Body Weight Status in Children and

Adolescents?
Abstract

Frequency, portion size, and type of snacks may be associated with body weight status in
children and adolescents. The objective of this meta-analysis is to summarize the evidence of
specific characteristics of snack consumption related to body weight. There were eight primary
studies (four cross-sectional & four longitudinal) that were used from PubMed to find
conclusive results. Some cross-sectional studies have found that energy-dense snacks contribute
to weight gain. However, there was no longitudinal relationship between the type of snacks and
body weight status. Studies have shown positive and negative results with the frequency and
portion size of snacks related to body weight status. However, there were many other behaviors
that were associated with snack consumption and body weight status. Many studies have found
a correlation between snack intake while watching television and body weight gain overtime.
Overall, there was not enough consistent evidence to determine if snack consumption was
related to body weight status among children and adolescents.