Diet Quality and Physical Activity in Children and Caregivers From PAVILA Shelter in Northern México

This study assessed diet quality and physical activity levels in children and caregivers at the PAVILA shelter in northern Mexico. Researchers examined eating habits and exercise to determine whether they met healthy diet recommendations. The study included 27 children and 10 caregivers, analyzing their food intake, physical activity, and body measurements. Results showed that, on average, their diet quality was moderate (57.76 out of 100). Only 2.70% had a good-quality diet, 75.68% had an intermediate-quality diet, and 21.62% had a poor-quality diet. Participants ate few vegetables, dairy products, and fish, while their consumption of sugars and saturated fats was high. Children had worse diet quality compared to caregivers. Their eating habits did not meet national or international nutrition guidelines. These findings are important because a poor diet and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. The study highlights the need for better nutrition at the shelter, encouraging more nutritious foods and reducing sugars and fats.