[Dietary intake analysis of Russian children 3-19 years old]

The objectives of this study was to analyze energy and nutrient intakes in Russian children 3-19 years old, based on the National Survey conducted by Rosstat among 45 thousand households in all regions of Russia in 2013. Dietary intake assessment was investigated using method of 24-hour recall. The analysed sample consisted of 34 637 records. Sampling distribution of children by place of residence (urban, rural) and by Federal Districts has a representative character. The values of the mean daily energy and nutrients consumption were compared to Russia recommendations (based on physiological needs), or compared to WHO recommendations (for added sugars and salt). It has been shown that values of energy consumption in children are similar to the Russia recommendations for the corresponding age and gender, although a bit lower standards - which is typical for data got by 24-hour food recall. It reveals clearly the association of energy consumption with the age and sex in groups of children over 11 years. Nutrient intakes in the most cases were slightly lower Russia recommendations and varied depending on gender and age, similar to the change in the energy consumption level. The findings showed that the major issues in children aged 3-19 years are an excessive consumption of the total fat, saturated fatty acids, added sugar and salt in combination with calcium and iron deficiency. Protein and fat intakes in percentage of the total calories intake of children of all ages are directly associated with the family income, while total carbohydrates and added sugars intake reduces by increasing the income. Results of the analysis of macronutrients consumption indicate significant effects of socio-economic factors on child nutrition, which confirms the data obtained in the early 1990s.