Dietary habits of school children:: Representative survey in metropolitan elementary schools -: Part two

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the eating habits and the nutrient intake of 11- to 14-year-old school children as part of a representative nutrition and health survey in primary schools in Budapest. Methods: A food frequency questionnaire of 875 school children, aged from 11 to 14 (449 boys and 426 girls), was recorded and evaluated. Energy and nutrient intake of 235 children (124 boys and 111 girls) was calculated in parallel by 3-day dietary record. Results: The average energy intake (MJ) was appropriate (boys: 10.40 +/- 1.89; girls: 9.18 +/- 1.50); protein and fat intake was somewhat higher than the Hungarian recommended dietary allowances. Sodium intake was alarmingly high. The intake of calcium and vitamin D was inadequate. The intakes of zinc, chromium, retinol, folate for both genders, and iron in the case of girls were insufficient. The daily consumption of milk and dairy products was deficient, that of vegetables and fresh fruits was rather low, while the frequency of consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, chips, sticks and fast foods was high. Conclusions: Nutrition intervention programs should be launched among Hungarian school children. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.