This study aims to evaluate the effect of eating speed on energy intake and body mass index in university
students. Changing eating habits today have made the effects of fast food consumption, in particular, on
obesity and weight management more important. The study was conducted on 109 students studying at
the Health Sciences and Medical Faculties of a university in Gaziantep between February 5 and May 5,
2024. The participants' eating speeds, energy intakes, and body mass index values were evaluated in the
study. Data were collected using questionnaires, 24-hour food consumption records, and bioelectrical
impedance analysis. It was observed that male students ate faster than female students and that this
was associated with higher energy intake (p<0.05). It was determined that individuals who ate slowly
generally had lower BMI, but the relationship between eating speed and body mass index varied by
gender (p<0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between daily eating speed and meal
duration and the amount of energy taken (p>0.05). A significant relationship was found between eating
speed and body mass index (p<0.05), and it was determined that individuals who ate fast had higher
BMI values. As a result, it is seen that eating speed can be an important factor in individuals' body
weight management. It has been observed that men tend to eat faster and this situation is associated with
higher body mass index. However, more research is needed on whether eating speed is a determining
factor in terms of energy intake. This study provides important data to understand and improve the
eating habits of university students.
