The associations between evening eating and quality of energy and macronutrients and obesity: NHANES, 2003–2016

Using NHANES 2003–2016 data from 27,911 U.S. adults, this study explored how evening eating and macronutrient quality relate to obesity. Results showed that higher intake of total energy, fats, and especially low-quality carbohydrates at dinner compared to breakfast significantly increased the risk of general, morbid, and abdominal obesity. Specific evening foods like added sugars and starchy vegetables were also linked with higher obesity risk. These findings reinforce the importance of meal timing and nutrient quality in obesity prevention.

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