Do Eating Habits Affect Hedonic Hunger? Mediterranean Diet Model and Western-Type Diet Model

Nowadays, as a result of easy access to high-energy and highly delicious foods, individuals’ diets have shifted from the Mediterranean diet model to the Western-style diet. Consumption of such unhealthy foods is positively associated with increased risk of hedonic hunger. This study was conducted to examine the effect of the dietary patterns on hedonic hunger. This descriptive, cross-sectional study included 617 university students. The Study data was obtained through a web-based survey form. The survey form includes individuals’ socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, Mediterranean Diet Quality Scale (KIDMED), Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale (MEDAS), and Power of Food Scale (PFS). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 22 software. 503 women and 114 men have participated in the study. The sub-scale score average for food availability in overweight/obese individuals was found to be significantly higher than that of underweight individuals (p < 0.05). A statistically significant negative correlation was observed at a low level between MEDAS scores and PFS total scores (r=-0.081, p=0.045), as well as with food availability (r=-0.111, p=0.006), and food presentation (r=-0.088, p=0.028). However, no statistically significant relationship was found between food tasting sub-scale scores (p > 0.05). The results of this study reveal the existence of a low level of negative correlation between hedonic hunger and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Further extensive research is needed concerning individuals residing in diverse geographic locations to gain deeper insights into this subject matter.