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Low-dietary fiber intake as a risk factor for recurrent abdominal pain in children

A Z Paulo1, O M S Amancio, M B de Morais

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of Sao Paulo/Paulista School of Medicine, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|February 3, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Children with recurrent abdominal pain often consume less dietary fiber than recommended. Low fiber intake is a significant risk factor for this common childhood condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) is a common condition in children presenting to pediatric gastroenterology clinics.
  • Dietary factors, particularly fiber intake, are suspected contributors to RAP, but evidence is often debated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between dietary fiber intake and the prevalence of recurrent abdominal pain in children.
  • To compare fiber consumption in children with RAP to a healthy control group.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted with 41 children diagnosed with RAP and 41 age-matched controls.
  • Dietary intake, including macronutrients and fiber, was assessed using the Daily Food Intake method.
  • Two different food composition tables (Brazilian and AOAC) were utilized to quantify fiber intake.

Main Results:

  • Children in the RAP group exhibited significantly lower total, soluble, and insoluble fiber intake compared to the control group, regardless of constipation status.
  • Fiber intake in the RAP group was below the recommended minimum (age + 5 g/day).
  • A statistically significant association was found between inadequate fiber intake and RAP, with an odds ratio of 3.39.

Conclusions:

  • Dietary fiber intake below the minimum recommended level is identified as a risk factor for recurrent abdominal pain in children.
  • These findings highlight the importance of adequate fiber consumption in pediatric gastrointestinal health.
  • Interventions aimed at increasing fiber intake may be beneficial for managing or preventing RAP in pediatric populations.
Abstract

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