Food Types in the Diet and the Nutrient Intake of Obese and Non−Obese Children

BACKGROUND Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions world-wide. OBJECTIVE To compare the types of food in the diet and the nutrient intake of obese children with those of non-obese children. METHODS A total of 95 obese and 592 non-obese children aged between 6 and 10 years participated in the study. A body mass index (BMI) value exceeding the 95th percentile for age and gender was taken as the criterion for obesity. Three-day food consumption was recorded and evaluated according to standard international recommendations. RESULTS Macronutrient intake was adequate in both obese and non-obese children. Energy intake of the obese children was significantly higher than that of the non-obese children. Micronutrient intake except fiber of both groups, calcium intake of obese children and vitamin A intake of non-obese children were higher than recommended amounts. The obese children consumed excessive fat and sugar, but less fruit and vegetables as compared to the non-obese children, and less than the recommendations of the food guide pyramid as adopted by the US Department of Food and Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services. CONCLUSION The implementation of educational programs on nutrition may be important for promoting knowledge about healthy eating among obese children.