Impact of Prolonged Electronic Gadget Use on Dietary Habits: A Comprehensive Study on Children and Women

Abstract

Among the behaviors related with food intake, using electronic gadgets (television, computer/laptop, and mobile phone/tablet) is important by given the number of children and women exposed. Also, more time spent on using electronic gadgets (television, computer/laptop, and mobile phone/tablet) has been correlated with physical inactivity and less required dietary intake among women and children. The purpose of the study was to assess the relationship between the use of electronic gadgets and unhealthy eating and how much time was spent on electronic gadgets. A cross-sectional survey-based evaluative study was performed on children and women. A questionnaire was designed for the survey. The total number of participants was 400 out of which 200 were women and 200 were children. Participants included were both male and female. All parameters were obtained and statistically analyzed. Spending more than five hours per day using electronic gadgets was significantly associated with higher intake of unhealthy foods in both children and women. A higher intake of low-nutrient foods and sugar beverages was observed among those spending additional time watching television. It is shown by the study, that more than (70%) of subjects agreed that advertisements affect their food choices.