Perceived effects of stress on food choice

Self-reported effects of stress on eating behaviour and food were assessed in a brief questionnaire in 212 students. Snacking behaviour was reportedly increased by stress in the majority of respondents (73%) regardless of gen der or dieting status. The overall increase in snacking during stress was r eflected by reports of increased intake of "snack-type" foods in all respon dents, regardless of dieting status. In contrast, intake of "meal-type" foo ds (fruit and vegetables, meat and fish) was reported to decrease during st ressful periods. The majority of the respondents reported an effect of stre ss on overall amount eaten, but while snacking, roughly equal numbers repor ting decreased intake (42%) and increased intake (38%). The direction of ch ange in intake could be predicted in part by dieting status, with dieters b eing more likely to report stress hyperphagia and nondieters being more lik ely to report stress hypophagia. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.