Dietary intake in adolescents from south-east Spain and its relationship with physical activity

Dietary intake (energy, macronutrients and micronutrients) and its possible relationship with levels of physical activity were studied in an adolescent group consisting of 142 boys and 197 girls aged between 14-18 years, from the region of Murcia. A continuous, 7 day dietetic register was used, and the population was stratified by physical activity (low, medium and high) and by sex. Results show an excess of energy in the diets of the male group, concurring with tricipital fold measurements, which were higher than the mean value for the Spanish adolescent population. A significant negative relationship was found (P < 0.05) between levels of physical activity and body fat content in the female group. Lipid excess and carbohydrates deficit were the principal dietetic imbalances found. Micronutrient deficits were observed in vitamin E, iron, zinc and magnesium. Although the study does not reveal significant differences in the alimentary habits of active and sedentary adolescents, the beneficial effects of exercise can be considered to partly compensate the dietetic imbalances found.