Food intake at age 8. 1. Energy, macro- and micronutrients

The food energy, macro-, and micronutrient intake of 78 boys and 63 girls aged 8 years who have been studied since birth is reported. Nutrient intake was calculated from 4 day weighed records using the CSIRONET data bank based on British tables of food composition. The mean values for daily intake for girls and boys, respectively, for energy (MJ), protein, fat, carbohydrate and fibre (g) were 7.4 and 6.5; 64 and 57; 71 and 62; 232 and 206; and 15 and 12 g. Half the food energy came from carbohydrate, divided equally between starch and simple sugars, 15% from protein, and 35% from fat. This comprised 41% saturated (S), 33% mono- and 16% polyunsaturated (P). The mean P:S ratio for girls was 0.46, and 0.41 for boys. Overall sweets and soft drinks contributed 4-5% to energy intake, with large individual differences. Mineral and vitamin intakes were satisfactory in relation to theoretical optimal population needs. Vitamin and/or mineral supplements were taken by 8.5% of the sample. These results are discussed in relation to the Nutritional Guidelines.