Adequate nutrition of children at early school age as essential element of prevention of civilization diseases

Journal Title: Medycyna Ogólna i Nauki o Zdrowiu - Year 2014, Vol 20, Issue 2

Abstract

Introduction. School-age children are likely to develop obesity and other diseases which develop in connection with inadequate nutrition. At this age, dietary habits acquired in early childhood are shaped which can be transferred to adult life. Aim. The aim of this study was to analyze mode of nutrition and life style of children at early school age, and evaluation of the level of knowledge of parents concerning the effect of adequate nutrition on children’s health. Methods. A survey was carried out among 200 randomly selected children, aged 7–12, attending elementary school in Stalowa Wola. A questionnaire designed by the author was designed, containing items regarding the recent development of the child. Data on dietary habits was collected based on the questionnaire interviews repeated three times on dietary intake during the 24 hours preceding the survey. Somatic characteristics were evaluated by measuring height and weight. Results. Based on the analysis of dietary recalls, the calorie content of daily food portions ranged from 799 kcal – 2987 kcal. Nearly every third child (26.6%) experienced appetite problems. The analyzed diets were deficient in micronutrients and macronutrients. Daily iron intakes were determined in the range of 2.1–12.6 mg/day (5.9 mg/day on average), and correspond to less than 50% of dietary reference values for preschool children. Conclusion. Mistakes made by parents may affect the normal development of the child and future health in adulthood; therefore, common education of parents, teachers and doctors is necessary concerning the impact of nutrition and physical activity on the healthy growth and development of children.

Authors and Affiliations

Małgorzata Kostecka

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP58372
  • DOI -
  • Views 182
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How To Cite

Małgorzata Kostecka (2014). Adequate nutrition of children at early school age as essential element of prevention of civilization diseases. Medycyna Ogólna i Nauki o Zdrowiu, 20(2), 208-213. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-58372