Eating habits in front of the television: a population-based study in Criciúma, Santa Catarina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12957/demetra.2026.79803Keywords:
Eating habits. Food intake. Food consumption.Abstract
Introduction: Diet has undergone several transformations over time, especially with the introduction of electronic devices such as cell phones and television. These technological advances have altered the population's eating habits, potentially influencing the quality of their diet and their relationship with food. Therefore, it is important to investigate the factors associated with the habit of eating while watching TV, especially across different age groups. Objective: This study aimed to determine the factors associated with the habit of eating while watching TV among adults and older adults in the city of Criciúma, located in southern Santa Catarina. Method: This is a cross-sectional, population-based study conducted between March and December 2019. The sample consisted of 820 individuals, with a predominance of females (63.8%) and participants aged 60 or older (45%). Data collection included sociodemographic information, dietary habits, and behavioral patterns. Statistical analysis was performed to identify associations between the habit of eating while watching TV and variables such as age, skin color, and consumption of ultra-processed foods. Results: The prevalence of the habit of eating while watching TV was 38.5%. After adjusted analysis, it was observed that younger individuals had a higher prevalence of this habit (PR 2.11 [95%CI 1.69;2.34]; p<0.001), with an inverse linear trend in relation to age (p<0.001). The skin color was also significantly associated with the habit of eating while watching TV (PR 1.43 [95%CI 1.12;1.82]; p=0.006). This finding highlights the multifactorial nature of eating while watching TV.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Louyse Sulzbach Damázio, Fernanda de Oliveira Meller, Micaela Rabelo Quadra, Antônio Augusto Schäfer
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