The Claim
The energy density of meals served to preschool children is inversely correlated with the portion size served, such that higher-energy-density foods are provided in smaller portions, which constrains total energy intake and contributes to a curvilinear relationship between meal energy density and total energy intake.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
When preschool children are served foods with higher energy density, they receive smaller portions, which limits their total calorie intake and results in a non-linear relationship between food energy density and total calories consumed.
See the scientific wording
The energy density of meals served to preschool children is inversely correlated with the amount served, with higher-energy-density foods consistently provided in smaller portions, which constrains intake and contributes to the observed curvilinear relationship with energy intake.
When food is very calorie-dense, smaller amounts are served, so children eat less of it. When food is less calorie-dense, larger amounts are served, so children eat more of it. This keeps their total calorie intake from rising even when the food is more calorie-dense.
What the research says
1 studyKids get smaller portions of super-calorie-dense foods like cheese and crackers, and bigger portions of low-calorie foods like apples and carrots. Because they can’t eat much of the high-calorie stuff, their total calorie intake doesn’t keep going up—even if they want to.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.