Investigating the relationship between eating habits and weight loss : a study amongst fitness seekers

Abstract

This dissertation examines the eating patterns and habits of 200 overweight participants. Empirical data and studies suggest that to shed weight one must be in a state of calorific deficit (Howley & Franks, 2007). However many recent studies have now shown that the timing of meals is more vital to maintaining one’s weight than the amount of calories consumed in a day (Scheer et al., 2013). The study provides data which would yield possible solutions towards improving the eating patterns and hence the overall well-being of adults. The study uses a mixed method approach as a methodology. An initial quantitative study was carried out using a questionnaire distributed to 200 adult participants. This was followed up by a focus group which targeted deeper understandings of concepts emergent from the quantitative part and which was compiled of 8 purposively selected adults. This targeted deeper investigation and understanding on issues related to choices reflecting subjective lifestyles, patterns and routines. This study is contextual and focused on the patterns of Maltese overweight adults. The outcomes of the study were compared and contrasted with various foreign studies.