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Anthropometric Parameters and Mediterranean Diet Adherence in Preschool Children in Split-Dalmatia County,

Dora Bučan Nenadić1,2, Ela Kolak1,2, Marija Selak1,2

  • 1Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University Hospital Centre Split, 21000 Split, Croatia.

Nutrients
|December 28, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Childhood obesity is rising in Croatia. This study found low adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MeDi) among preschool children, linked to poorer nutritional status and higher obesity rates.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Public Health
  • Dietary Habits

Background:

  • Childhood obesity presents a significant public health challenge in European nations, including Croatia.
  • Prevalence data indicates a high rate of overweight and obesity among Croatian children.
  • The Mediterranean diet (MeDi) is recognized for its positive impact on health and nutritional status.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the nutritional status of preschool children in Split, Croatia.
  • To evaluate adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MeDi) in this population.
  • To identify potential correlations between dietary habits and anthropometric measurements.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional, observational study involving 598 preschool children (ages 3-7).
  • Data collection included parental lifestyle questionnaires and the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED).
  • Anthropometric measurements (weight, height, MUAC, WC) were taken, and z-scores calculated.

Main Results:

  • Over 20% of children were overweight or obese, with 9% underweight.
  • Nearly half (49%) of participants exhibited low adherence to the MeDi (low KIDMED score).
  • Significant negative correlations were observed between MUAC/WC and daily fruit/vegetable consumption.

Conclusions:

  • Low adherence to MeDi principles among preschool children is a concern.
  • Promoting the MeDi is crucial for improving child health in Mediterranean regions.
  • Educational initiatives are needed to foster healthy eating habits in young children.

Keywords:
Mediterranean dietSplit-Dalmatia Countyeating habitsnutritional statuspreschool children

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