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2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Systematic Reviews

Systematic Review Question

What is the relationship between eating out and/or take away meals and body weight in children and adults?

Conclusion Statement

Among adults, moderate evidence from prospective cohort studies in populations ages 40 years or younger at baseline indicates higher frequency of fast-food consumption is associated with higher body weight, body mass index (BMI) and risk for obesity. 

2015 DGAC Grade: Moderate 

Among children, limited evidence from prospective cohort studies in populations ages eight to 16 years at baseline suggests that higher frequency of fast-food consumption is associated with increased adiposity; BMI Z-score; or risk of obesity during childhood, adolescence and during the transition from adolescence into adulthood. 

2015 DGAC Grade: Limited 

Insufficient evidence is available to assess the relationship between frequency of other types of restaurant and takeout meals and body weight outcomes in children and adults. 

2015 DGAC Grade: Grade Not Assignable