Energy Intake and Physical Activity Patterns in Children and Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Sofia Cardoso, Inês Sanches, Daniela Correia, Sofia Vilela
Primary Institution: EPIUnit ITR - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto
Hypothesis
At least two EI and PA clusters will emerge, and the one with a later vs. earlier distribution will be positively associated with worse weight status.
Conclusion
A daily energy intake pattern with more and even peaks at earlier daytime periods may be negatively associated with overweight or obesity among Portuguese youth aged 6–14 years.
Supporting Evidence
- Three energy intake patterns were identified, with one pattern associated with lower obesity risk.
- Participants with a more even energy intake pattern had a lower prevalence of overweight or obesity.
- Physical activity patterns did not show a significant association with weight status.
Takeaway
Eating more evenly throughout the day, especially earlier, can help kids stay healthy and avoid being overweight.
Methodology
The study used cluster analysis on energy intake and physical activity data collected from food diaries and activity logs of participants aged 6 to 14 years.
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting or overreporting of dietary intake based on weight status.
Limitations
Possible measurement errors and social desirability bias in dietary intake; reliance on self-reported data for physical activity.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 6 to 14 years, with a mean age of 10 years, and included 51% girls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.49
Confidence Interval
(0.26, 0.92)
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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