Caloric estimation bias of realistic meal and beverage preparations

This study was undertaken to characterize caloric estimation bias in realistic meal and beverage preparations of varied size and nutritional value. Differences in the estimation bias of meals and beverages were determined in relation to sex and weight status (body mass index and percent body fat). In general, most subjects were inaccurate in caloric estimation. Subjects were more accurate when estimating larger versus smaller, and unhealthy versus healthy realistic, home-style food items. Accurate prediction of solid foods was not related to accurate beverage prediction. In addition to the size of food items, the healthfulness and form of calories are predictors of caloric estimation accuracy.