Eating behavior latent profiles are associated with body composition indices in Spanish preschoolers, with sex-specific differences for the controlled eater profile and fat-free mass index.

The Claim

Eating behavior latent profiles are associated with body composition indices in Spanish preschoolers, with sex-specific differences for the controlled eater profile and fat-free mass index.

This conclusion is most relevant to: Spanish preschoolers aged 3-6 years from the CORALS cohort (50.1% girls, n=1208)..

What the Research Shows

The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:

• ▸Eating Behavior Latent Profiles and Their Associations With Body Composition in Early Childhood: The CORALS Cohort. (Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.), 2026) —

How It Works

The proposed biological pathway:

• ▸Eating behavior profiles are identified via latent profile analysis using CEBQ subscales.
• ▸Food approach behaviors (e.g., avid eating) may promote higher energy intake and fat accumulation.
• ▸Food avoidance behaviors (e.g., avoidant eating) may lead to lower energy intake and reduced fat mass.
• ▸Sex-specific differences in the controlled eater profile may reflect differential metabolic or behavioral responses, influencing fat-free mass differently in boys and girls.

Who Might Benefit

Evidence fit by population:

• ▸Spanish preschoolers aged 3-6 years from the CORALS cohort (50.1% girls, n=1208).

Recommended Dose

N/A

Limitations & Caveats

Important context when interpreting this evidence:

• ▸Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference.
• ▸Eating behaviors were self-reported via questionnaire, potentially subject to reporting bias.
• ▸Sample is limited to Spanish preschoolers, limiting generalizability to other populations.
• ▸Residual confounding may exist despite adjustments for sociodemographic variables, energy intake, outdoor play, and sleep duration.

Frequently Asked Questions