A comparison of energy intake between eating positions in a NHS hospital--a pilot study.
Malnutrition and the under-consumption of food in hospitals is prevalent and in UK hospitals, the consumption of meals is mainly a solitude event, despite evidence to show that eating in the presence of others can actually increase food intake. Dietary data were collected for three consecutive 24 h periods (n=13) from patients who consumed their meals either in bed, at the side of the bed or in the presence of others. Results show a significant increase (p<0.05) in the mean daily energy intake for those sitting around a table in the presence of others. Although a small pilot study, the results confirm the value of social facilitation in improving the under-consumption of food when in hospital.
Edwards
J S A
JS
Worshipful Company of Cooks Research Centre, Bournemouth University, Poole, Dorset BH12 5BB, England. edwardsj@bournemouth.ac.uk
Hartwell
H J
HJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004435:Eating / Q000502:physiology / Q000523:psychology*; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D005521:Food Service, Hospital; D006801:Humans; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000517:prevention & control; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012932:Social Facilitation; D012934:Social Isolation