Sugar-added beverages consumption among kindergarten children of Crete: effects on nutritional status and risk of obesity

• Main Authors: Sbokos Manolis (Author), Pateraki Maria-Styliani (Author), Sarri Katerina (Author), Linardakis Manolis (Author), Kafatos Anthony (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2008-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Objective</p> <p>To assess the intake of sugar-added beverages such as soft drinks and commercially available fruit juices in kindergarten children, and to examine its association with obesity indices, physical activity levels and dietary habits.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>A total of 856 children aged 4-7 years living in Crete, Greece in 2004-5 were included in this cross-sectional study. Nutrient and food intake was assessed with the use of 3-day weighed food records. Body measurements were used in order to assess BMI and waist circumference, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was calculated with the use of a questionnaire.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Approximately 59.8% of all children consumed sugar-added beverages on a daily basis. High intake of sugar-added beverages (> 250 g/day) was associated with low intakes of calcium (p < 0.001), vitamin A and E (p < 0.010), fruits and vegetables (p = 0.007), and milk and yogurt (p = 0.048). Compared to non or low consumers, high consumers of sugar-added beverages (> 250 g/day) had higher BMI levels and two times greater risk of being overweight and/or obese (OR:2.35, p = 0.023).</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>High intake of sugar-added beverages in kindergarten children is associated with poor eating habits and inadequate nutrient intake, as well as increased risk for developing childhood obesity.</p>

Item Description

10.1186/1471-2458-8-279
1471-2458