Final answer:
The idea that those who eat alone are likely to eat more food is false. Eating in a social context can slow down the pace of eating and allow cues of fullness to register, whereas solitary eaters might succumb to poor food choices without necessarily consuming more.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that individuals eating alone are likely to eat more food is generally false. Many factors influence dietary habits, including psychological factors, societal norms, and availability of food. Psychological studies suggest that appetite is reduced by worry and anxiety, while it can increase in pleasant surroundings and with good company. Eating in a social context typically involves more conversation and pauses, allowing for cues of satiation to register, and the meal itself turns into an act of culture, as explained by Michael Pollan. Moreover, the trend of eating fast food when under pressure further pushes the idea that busyness and eating solo are related to poor food choices rather than increased consumption.
Challenging the statement further, the idea of consuming small meals at frequent intervals to prevent overeating aligns with the 'everyday connection' that spacing out food intake can curb over-consumption, rather than the notion that solitary eaters consume more. Nevertheless, the portion sizes in many eating establishments have increased, making overeating a risk regardless of dining company.
Eating habits that lead to over-consumption are complex and involve elements like increased portion sizes, increased sedentary lifestyles, and availability of unhealthy food options rather than the mere presence of others.