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New Research in Childhood Nutrition
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New Research in Childhood Nutrition

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Global and Public Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 October 2022) | Viewed by 51488

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Jose J. Muros Molina

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
Interests: physical activity; health; anthropometry; childhood
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Childhood is a key stage for the acquisition of behaviours that are likely to endure into adulthood. It is therefore not surprising that engagement in healthy eating is considered to be one of the most important habits to be acquired by children for them to develop into healthy adults. Healthy eating habits have been demonstrated to have a positive influence on preventing chronic diseases and improving mental health in children and adolescents.

The goal of this Special Issue in Children is to highlight new research in childhood nutrition. We welcome reviews and original research which consider novel approaches and identify gaps in knowledge. We also encourage submissions that explore how nutrition may impact upon physical and mental health during these stages.

Dr. Jose J. Muros
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Children is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nutrition
  • Mediterranean diet
  • nutrients
  • minerals
  • vitamins
  • health
  • malnutrition
  • weight disorders
  • anthropometric measurements
  • children
  • adolescents
  • parents

Published Papers (18 papers)

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11 pages, 756 KiB  
Article
Study on Nutritional Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Chinese School Football Players
by Yao Chen, Yingshuang Sun, Zhiyun Liu and Donglin Hu
Children 2022, 9(12), 1910; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9121910 - 06 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1435
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to validate previous structural models of factors influencing dietary behavior changes and construct the knowledge, attitude, and behavioral models of youth school football players. Methods: 279 school football players aged 12–17 years in Grades 7–12 in Hunan Province, China, [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aims to validate previous structural models of factors influencing dietary behavior changes and construct the knowledge, attitude, and behavioral models of youth school football players. Methods: 279 school football players aged 12–17 years in Grades 7–12 in Hunan Province, China, completed a questionnaire to collect data on sports nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. A structural equation model (SEM) was built based on the knowledge-attitude-behavior (KAB) model and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) model to introduce nutritional knowledge directly or by altering attitudes into the dietary behavior path of players. Four factors affecting dietary behaviors were involved in the hypothetical structure, which consists of the following hypotheses: (1) nutrition knowledge affects the attitude towards sports nutrition (H1); (2) nutrition knowledge affects dietary behaviors (H2); (3) nutrition knowledge affects subjective norms (H3); (4) nutrition knowledge affects perceived behavioral control (H4); (5) subjective norms affect dietary behaviors (H5); and 6) perceived behavioral control affects dietary behaviors (H6). Results: Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) revealed that the reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the built SEM conformed to the measured relationships in each dimension. In the final structural model, it was found that nutrition knowledge had a direct impact on the attitudes of players and affected their dietary behaviors in a direct manner or through their subjective norms and perceived behavioral control. Conclusions: The results are in agreement with the TPB-based KAB chain and support the KAB theory for youth school football players in Hunan Province, China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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11 pages, 614 KiB  
Article
Birth Weight and Body Composition as Determined by Isotopic Dilution with Deuterium Oxide in 6- to 8-Year-Old South African Children
by Makama Andries Monyeki, Caroline Molete Sedumedi, John J. Reilly, Xanne Janssen, Herculina Salome Kruger, Ruan Kruger and Cornelia U. Loechl
Children 2022, 9(10), 1597; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9101597 - 21 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1206
Abstract
Low and high birth weight (BW) are associated with obesity later in life; however, this association has not been extensively studied in African countries. This study determines the association between BW and body composition derived from deuterium oxide (D2O) dilution in [...] Read more.
Low and high birth weight (BW) are associated with obesity later in life; however, this association has not been extensively studied in African countries. This study determines the association between BW and body composition derived from deuterium oxide (D2O) dilution in 6- to 8-year-old South African children (n = 91; 40 boys, 51 girls). BW was recorded retrospectively from the children’s Road-to-Health cards. Weight and height were measured using standard procedures, and D2O dilution was used to determine total body water and, subsequently, to determine body fat. Fatness was classified using the McCarthy centiles, set at 2nd, 85th, and 95th (underfat, overfat and obese). BW correlated with body composition measures, such as body weight (r = 0.23, p = 0.03), height (r = 0.33, p < 0.001), and fat free mass (FFM; r = 0.27, p = 0.01). When multiple regression analysis was employed, BW significantly and positively associated with FFM (β = 0.24, p = 0.013; 95% CI: 0.032; 0.441) and fat mass (β = 0.21, p = 0.02, 95%CI: 0.001; 0.412) in girls and boys combined. A total of 13% of the children had a low BW, with 21% being overweight and 17% obese. More girls than boys were overweight and obese. Intervention strategies that promote healthy uterine growth for optimal BW are needed in order to curb the global obesity pandemic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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12 pages, 288 KiB  
Article
Fruit and Vegetable Intake Is Associated with Food Knowledge among Children Aged 9–14 Years in Southwestern Ontario, Canada
by Louise W. McEachern, Mariam R. Ismail, Jamie A. Seabrook and Jason A. Gilliland
Children 2022, 9(10), 1456; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9101456 - 23 Sep 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2887
Abstract
Interventions to improve dietary quality and intake of fruits and vegetables (FV) among Canadian children have had modest success, and it has been suggested that food knowledge could be key to improvement. Programs have been criticized for insufficiently connecting food knowledge with food [...] Read more.
Interventions to improve dietary quality and intake of fruits and vegetables (FV) among Canadian children have had modest success, and it has been suggested that food knowledge could be key to improvement. Programs have been criticized for insufficiently connecting food knowledge with food skills and decision making about dietary intake. The objective of this study was to investigate factors associated with FV consumption by elementary school children, aged 9–14 years, in Ontario, Canada, including food knowledge, socioeconomic status, sociodemographic characteristics, and the food environment. In 2017–2019, a cross-sectional survey was administered to 2443 students at 60 elementary schools across Southwestern Ontario (SWO), Canada. A parent survey was used to validate self-reported sociodemographic variables. The mean intake of FV reported by these participants was 2.6 (SD 1.1) and 2.4 (SD 1.2) servings/day, respectively. A FV intake below WHO guidelines was reported by 40.7% of respondents. Knowledge score, child age, and parent employment status significantly predicted higher reported intake of FV. This study shows that FV intake among this population group is low, and increased intake is associated with higher food knowledge. To encourage healthy eating, school-based food and nutrition programs that incorporate multiple components and emphasize food literacy are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
12 pages, 280 KiB  
Article
Food Insecurity, Dietary Intakes, and Eating Behaviors in a Convenience Sample of Toronto Youth
by Alexandra Dubelt-Moroz, Marika Warner, Bryan Heal, Saman Khalesi, Jessica Wegener, Julia O. Totosy de Zepetnek, Jennifer J. Lee, Taylor Polecrone, Jasmin El-Sarraj, Emelie Holmgren and Nick Bellissimo
Children 2022, 9(8), 1119; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9081119 - 27 Jul 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2338
Abstract
Background: Food insecurity has been shown to be associated with poor dietary quality and eating behaviors, which can have both short- and long-term adverse health outcomes in children. The objective was to investigate the food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors in [...] Read more.
Background: Food insecurity has been shown to be associated with poor dietary quality and eating behaviors, which can have both short- and long-term adverse health outcomes in children. The objective was to investigate the food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors in a convenience sample of youth participating in the Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment LaunchPad programming in downtown Toronto, Ontario. Methods: Youth aged 9–18 years were recruited to participate in the study. Food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors were collected using parent- or self-reported questionnaires online. Results: Sixty-six youth (mean ± SD: 11.7 ± 1.9 years) participated in the study. The prevalence of household food insecurity was higher than the national average with at least one child under 18 years of age (27.7% vs. 16.2%). Dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends with low intakes of fiber, inadequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D; and excess intakes of sodium, added sugar, and saturated fat. Despite a low prevalence of poor eating habits, distracted eating was the most frequently reported poor eating habit. Conclusions: Although youth were at high risk for experiencing household food insecurity, inadequate dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends. Our findings can be used to develop future programming to facilitate healthy dietary behaviors appropriate for the target community. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
12 pages, 280 KiB  
Article
Weight Status and Associated Risk Factors of Mealtime Behaviours among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Maizatul Naqiah Zulkifli, Masne Kadar and Nur Hana Hamzaid
Children 2022, 9(7), 927; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9070927 - 21 Jun 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2046
Abstract
Atypical mealtime behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been linked with oral sensory hypersensitivity that may contribute to food selectivity and weight issues. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the association between atypical mealtime behaviours and associated risk factors besides [...] Read more.
Atypical mealtime behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been linked with oral sensory hypersensitivity that may contribute to food selectivity and weight issues. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the association between atypical mealtime behaviours and associated risk factors besides exploring the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Malaysian children with ASD in community settings. A total of 150 children with ASD aged 3–11 years participated in this study. A self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic variables, mealtime behaviours and oral sensory processing was completed by the caregivers. The prevalence of overweight in the study samples was 18.5%, whereas obesity was 20.0%. In a multivariate analysis model, oral sensory processing (B = 0.608, 95% CI = 0.493, 0.722, p < 0.001), severity of autism symptoms (moderate and severe) (B = 2.585, 95% CI = 0.722, 4.448, p = 0.007) and younger children with ASD (B = −0.694, 95% CI = −1.189, −0.199, p = 0.006) were found as independent predictors of atypical mealtime behaviours. Children with ASD aged 3–11 years old have a higher prevalence of being overweight and obese, thus requiring regular anthropometric screening in community settings by relevant healthcare professionals. Furthermore, a relationship was found between oral sensory difficulties and atypical mealtime behaviours in children with ASD. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial in the overall management of food selectivity in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
10 pages, 284 KiB  
Article
Breastfeeding, Complementary Feeding, Physical Activity, Screen Use, and Hours of Sleep in Children under 2 Years during Lockdown by the COVID-19 Pandemic in Chile
by Edson Bustos-Arriagada, Karina Etchegaray-Armijo, Ángelo Liberona-Ortiz and Lissette Duarte-Silva
Children 2022, 9(6), 819; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9060819 - 01 Jun 2022
Viewed by 1665
Abstract
Infants and children are a risk group in terms of developing healthy habits, an important aspect if we consider that many of them were born during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to evaluate compliance with lifestyle recommendations proposed at the national and [...] Read more.
Infants and children are a risk group in terms of developing healthy habits, an important aspect if we consider that many of them were born during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to evaluate compliance with lifestyle recommendations proposed at the national and international levels in children aged 0 to 23 months during confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile. A cross-sectional study was conducted, and 211 online questionnaires were completed with sociodemographic and lifestyle information of children. Our results show high compliance with the recommendations on breastfeeding intake (78.3% and 69.5% in 0–5-month-old and 6–23-month-old children, respectively); age of starting complementary feeding (87.4%); non-consumption of salt and sugar (80.1%), non-caloric sweeteners (90.7%), and sweet and salty snacks (68.9%); and hours of physical activity (66.8%) and sleep (65.4%). However, we observed low compliance with the recommendations on the age of introduction of dinner (58.0%), eggs (23.0%), legumes (39.2%), and fish (35.1%); low consumption of legumes (43.4%) and fish (20.5%); and low compliance with the recommendations on screen use during meals (59.2%) and daily screen hours (41.2%). In conclusion, feeding behavior, physical activity, use of screens, and hours of sleep in children were altered by confinement during the pandemic, harming the development of healthy lifestyles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
15 pages, 723 KiB  
Article
Sugar Content and Sources in Commercial Infant Cereals in Spain
by Liliana Garro-Mellado, Eduardo Guerra-Hernández and Belén García-Villanova
Children 2022, 9(1), 115; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children9010115 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2869
Abstract
Instant infant cereals reconstituted with infant formula are the first complementary food for most Spanish infants. The main aim is to provide information on sugars in the formulation of infant cereals. Product information was collected from department stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies and completed [...] Read more.
Instant infant cereals reconstituted with infant formula are the first complementary food for most Spanish infants. The main aim is to provide information on sugars in the formulation of infant cereals. Product information was collected from department stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies and completed with data from brand websites. A portion of the samples was selected for total sugars determination using the HPLC and Luff-Schoorl methods. The information regarding a total of 120 milk-free instant infant cereals marketed in Spain from 12 companies was summarized. The mean of total sugars was 23 ± 9 g/100 g (25–42%), providing 24% of the calories. Most of porridges are prepared with partially hydrolyzed flours providing free sugars (glucose and maltose). The most commonly added sugar is sucrose. A total of 43.3% of products contain added sucrose, and 16.7% contain fruits. Infant cereals analyzed with added sugars can have a sugar content similar to that found in products without added sugars. Consistent differences were found in sugars content between assayed methods and this label information. Although the European legislation of infant cereals establishes values for added sugars, the labeling reflects the content of total sugars, but not that of added sugars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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10 pages, 549 KiB  
Article
Association of Infant Feeding Practices with Iron Status and Hematologic Parameters in 6-Month-Old Infants
by Chayatat Ruangkit, Nawapat Prachakittikul, Nutthida Hemprachitchai, Oraporn Dumrongwongsiri and Sasivimon Soonsawad
Children 2021, 8(12), 1159; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8121159 - 08 Dec 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2899
Abstract
Background: Infants’ feeding practices in the first 6 months of life and their association with iron status and hematologic parameters has not been well studied. We aim to evaluate this association. Methods: In a retrospective chart review, we identified 403 infants who received [...] Read more.
Background: Infants’ feeding practices in the first 6 months of life and their association with iron status and hematologic parameters has not been well studied. We aim to evaluate this association. Methods: In a retrospective chart review, we identified 403 infants who received laboratory screening for anemia at 6-month visits. Infants were categorized into four groups according to feeding practices. Hematologic parameters and incidence of anemia, iron deficiency (ID), and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) were compared. Results: In total, 105 infants were breastfed (BF), 78 were breastfed with iron supplementation starting at 4 months (BI), 109 were mixed-fed (breast milk and formula) with or without iron supplementation (MF), and 111 were formula-fed (FF). The BF group had the highest incidence of anemia (38.1%), ID (28.6%), and IDA (17.1%) when compared with the other groups (p < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression, BI, MF, and FF infants had 90.4%, 97.5%, and 96.9% decreased risk of IDA, respectively, with BF infants as a reference group. Conclusion: The incidence of anemia, ID, and IDA at age 6 months was higher in BF than FF or MF infants. However, iron supplements in BF infants starting at 4 months significantly reduced their ID and IDA incidence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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11 pages, 590 KiB  
Article
Circulating Levels of Bone Markers after Short-Term Intense Training with Increased Dairy Consumption in Adolescent Female Athletes
by Panagiota Klentrou, Katherine McKee, Brandon J. McKinlay, Nigel Kurgan, Brian D. Roy and Bareket Falk
Children 2021, 8(11), 961; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8110961 - 25 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1886 | Correction
Abstract
Thirteen female adolescent soccer players (14.3 ± 1.3 years) participated in a cross-over, double-blind trial examining the effects of Greek yogurt (GY) consumption on bone biomarkers during 5 days of intense soccer training. The study took place over two intervention weeks, which consisted [...] Read more.
Thirteen female adolescent soccer players (14.3 ± 1.3 years) participated in a cross-over, double-blind trial examining the effects of Greek yogurt (GY) consumption on bone biomarkers during 5 days of intense soccer training. The study took place over two intervention weeks, which consisted of a pre-training assessment day, 5 training days, and a post-training assessment day. Participants completed the GY condition and a carbohydrate isocaloric placebo control pudding condition (CHO) in random order, 4 weeks apart. Morning, fasted, resting blood samples were collected pre- and post-training in each condition. Total osteocalcin (tOC), undercarboxylated osteocalcin (unOC), C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and receptor activator nuclear factor kappa-β ligand (RANKL) were measured in serum. The results showed no effects for time (pre- to post-training) or condition, and no interaction for tOC, CTX, OPG, RANKL, and the OPG/RANKL ratio. A time-by-condition interaction (p = 0.011) was observed in unOC, reflecting a post-training decrease in the GY, but not the CHO condition (−26% vs. −3%, respectively). However, relative unOC (% of tOC) decreased post-training (−16%), with no differences between conditions. These findings suggest that short-term high-impact intense training had no direct catabolic impact on bone metabolism, with GY adding no benefit beyond that of the isocaloric CHO control pudding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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14 pages, 631 KiB  
Article
Relationships among Physical Self-Concept, Physical Activity and Mediterranean Diet in Adolescents from the Province of Granada
by Mariana Pérez-Mármol, Ramón Chacón-Cuberos, Eduardo García-Mármol and Manuel Castro-Sánchez
Children 2021, 8(10), 901; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8100901 - 09 Oct 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2256
Abstract
The aim of the present research was to analyse the relationships among physical self-concept, physical activity engagement and Mediterranean diet adherence in a sample of 1650 secondary school students from the province of Granada. The study design was descriptive–exploratory, cross-sectional and ex post [...] Read more.
The aim of the present research was to analyse the relationships among physical self-concept, physical activity engagement and Mediterranean diet adherence in a sample of 1650 secondary school students from the province of Granada. The study design was descriptive–exploratory, cross-sectional and ex post facto. Measurements were taken from a single group. The PSQ, PAQ-A and KIDMED questionnaires were used to measure diet quality. Results showed the presence of a positive relationship among all dimensions of physical self-concept and physical activity engagement, with better outcomes being achieved in this self-perception with increasing engagement in sport. With regard to diet quality and its repercussions on physical self-concept, it was highlighted that the dimensions of the general self-concept, physical attractiveness and strength tended to be more positive as quality improved. In contrast, worse outcomes were produced in those with a low-quality diet. In this way, it was deemed necessary to continue investigating psychosocial factors with the aim of clarifying the relationships with psychological factors and health indicators. This would enable the development of prevention and intervention programs focused on promoting wellbeing in adolescents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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14 pages, 899 KiB  
Article
Selective Attention and Concentration Are Related to Lifestyle in Chilean Schoolchildren
by Felipe Caamaño-Navarrete, Pedro Ángel Latorre-Román, Juan Párraga-Montilla, Daniel Jerez-Mayorga and Pedro Delgado-Floody
Children 2021, 8(10), 856; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8100856 - 27 Sep 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2777
Abstract
The objective of this investigation was to determine the association between selective attention and concentration with physical fitness (i.e., cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), V˙O2max, the standing long jump test (SLJ) and handgrip muscle strength (HGS)), lifestyle parameters (i.e., physical activity [...] Read more.
The objective of this investigation was to determine the association between selective attention and concentration with physical fitness (i.e., cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), V˙O2max, the standing long jump test (SLJ) and handgrip muscle strength (HGS)), lifestyle parameters (i.e., physical activity (PA) level, screen time (ST), sleep duration and food habits) and anthropometric measures (i.e., body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC)) among Chilean schoolchildren. Two hundred and forty-eight schoolchildren (137 boys, 111 girls, 11.80 ± 1.17 and 11.58 ± 1.09 years, respectively) participated. Selective attention, concentration and lifestyle (PA, ST, sleep duration and Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence) were determined using a standard questionnaire. CRF, SLJ, HGS and anthropometric indicators (BMI and WC) were also measured. Selective attention showed a positive association with MD adherence score (β; 5.012, p = p < 0.05). Concentration was linked inversely to ST (β; −5.498, p = p < 0.05). Likewise, concentration presented a positive association with MD adherence (β; 2.904, p = p < 0.05). In conclusion, children’s lifestyles are related to the selective attention and concentration of children; therefore, promoting healthy habits could be a cost-effective strategy in the promotion of cognitive development, as it relates to selective attention and concentration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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14 pages, 332 KiB  
Article
Influence of Confinement Due to COVID-19 on Physical Activity and Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Its Relationship with Self-Esteem in Pre-Adolescent Students
by Gracia Cristina Villodres, Laura García-Pérez, Juan Miguel Corpas and José Joaquín Muros
Children 2021, 8(10), 848; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8100848 - 25 Sep 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2708
Abstract
Regular physical activity and good adherence to the Mediterranean diet are important for improving physical and mental health. Confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a lack of exercise and poor nutrition. Preadolescent mental health, specifically regarding self-esteem, may have been [...] Read more.
Regular physical activity and good adherence to the Mediterranean diet are important for improving physical and mental health. Confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a lack of exercise and poor nutrition. Preadolescent mental health, specifically regarding self-esteem, may have been affected. This is particularly relevant between the ages of 10 and 14. The influence of total confinement due to COVID-19 on physical activity and Mediterranean diet adherence, and its relationship with self-esteem was studied in third-year primary school students and first-year secondary school students in the provinces of Granada and Malaga, Spain. Validated questionnaires were administered to evaluate physical activity (PAQ-C), Mediterranean diet adherence (KIDMED) and self-esteem (Rosenberg Scale). In the same way, the FAS III test was used to evaluate socioeconomic status and an ad-hoc questionnaire was developed to collect sociodemographic data and evaluate screen time. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS 25.0 statistical software. During the period of total confinement, statistically significant differences were found between examined variables, according to sex, school year, school type, socioeconomic status and whether or not the participant had contracted COVID-19. These data were compared with those collected during a previous time period. Those with a low socioeconomic status and girls were most affected. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
16 pages, 312 KiB  
Article
Maternal Tobacco and Alcohol Use in Relation to Child Malnutrition in Gauteng, South Africa: A Retrospective Analysis
by Perpetua Modjadji and Mpinane Pitso
Children 2021, 8(2), 133; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8020133 - 11 Feb 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3594
Abstract
Tobacco and alcohol use among mothers is associated with numerous adverse consequences for affected offspring, including poor growth and development. This study determined the association between maternal tobacco and alcohol use, and malnutrition, among infants aged ≤ 12 months (n = 300), [...] Read more.
Tobacco and alcohol use among mothers is associated with numerous adverse consequences for affected offspring, including poor growth and development. This study determined the association between maternal tobacco and alcohol use, and malnutrition, among infants aged ≤ 12 months (n = 300), in selected health facilities situated in Gauteng, South Africa. Data on alcohol and tobacco use were collected using a validated questionnaire, in addition to mothers’ socio-demographic characteristics and obstetric history. Stunting (low height/length-for-age), underweight (low weight-for-age) and thinness (low body mass index-for-age) were calculated using z-scores based on the World Health Organization child growth standards. The association of tobacco and alcohol use with stunting, underweight and thinness was analysed using logistic regression analysis. The results showed a mean age of 29 years (24.0; 35.0) for mothers and 7.6 ± 3 months for infants, and over half of the mothers were unemployed (63%). Approximately 18.7% of mothers had used tobacco and 3% had used alcohol during pregnancy. The prevalence of current tobacco and alcohol use among mothers were estimated at 14.3% and 49.7%, respectively, and almost three-quarters (67.3%) of them were still breastfeeding during the study period. Stunting (55%) was the most prevalent malnutrition indicator among infants, while underweight was 41.7%, and thinness was 22%. Current tobacco use was associated with increased odds of being thin [OR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.09–5.45), and after adjusting for confounders, current alcohol use was associated with the likelihood of being underweight [AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.06–3.63] among infants. Future prospective cohort studies that examine growth patterns among infants who are exposed to maternal tobacco and alcohol use from the intrauterine life to infancy are necessary to inform, partly, the public health programmes, to reduce malnutrition among children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
8 pages, 259 KiB  
Article
Breakfast Food Advertisements in Mediterranean Countries: Products’ Sugar Content in the Adverts from 2015 to 2019
by Mireia Montaña Blasco
Children 2021, 8(1), 14; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8010014 - 31 Dec 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5500
Abstract
Although Spain was considered to be the healthiest country in the world in 2019, some studies reported that Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, especially for breakfast, is low among children in Mediterranean countries, where child obesity is increasing alarmingly. This study correlated longitudinally the [...] Read more.
Although Spain was considered to be the healthiest country in the world in 2019, some studies reported that Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence, especially for breakfast, is low among children in Mediterranean countries, where child obesity is increasing alarmingly. This study correlated longitudinally the sugar content of breakfast products with advertising strategies. The research design applied quantitative analysis to compile the advertising data from 2015 to 2019 for all media, qualitative analysis of the content, and the use of popular characters to promote the food purchase. Additionally, a nutritional analysis was used to determine the products’ sugar content. The results were analyzed according to the target they were aimed at (adults or children). Results showed that the Spanish food industry promoted unhealthy products for breakfast, especially those targeted to children, with very high sugar content. To improve the childhood obesity rate in Spain, greater involvement from the food industry is needed. The reformulation of breakfast products must be a priority along with additional sugar reduction strategies so as not to lose adherence to MD in younger generations. More nutrition education is necessary among children, especially on balanced breakfast consumption, a basic meal that helps children to concentrate better in class during the morning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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14 pages, 325 KiB  
Article
Physical Activity Level, Mediterranean Diet Adherence, and Emotional Intelligence as a Function of Family Functioning in Elementary School Students
by Eduardo Melguizo-Ibáñez, Virginia Viciana-Garófano, Félix Zurita-Ortega, José Luis Ubago-Jiménez and Gabriel González-Valero
Children 2021, 8(1), 6; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8010006 - 24 Dec 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2914
Abstract
(1) Background: Family is considered as one of the most important elements for the transmission of healthy habits that improve the lives of students. For this reason, the present study aims to describe the degree of family functionality, emotional intelligence, Mediterranean diet adherence, [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Family is considered as one of the most important elements for the transmission of healthy habits that improve the lives of students. For this reason, the present study aims to describe the degree of family functionality, emotional intelligence, Mediterranean diet adherence, and extra-curricular physical activity engagement. A further aim is to perform a correlational analysis between these variables. (2) Methods: To this end, an ad hoc questionnaire was used, alongside the APGAR, KIDMED, and Trait Meta Mood Scale (TMMS-24). (3) Results: Finally, the data suggest that a high percentage of students need to improve their diet. Further, students reporting severe family dysfunction showed worse outcomes. Thus, levels of emotional clarity were lower when family functionality was poor. Poor diet quality was also associated with lower emotional attention, with Mediterranean diet adherence being positively related to emotional clarity and repair, as well as normal family functionality. (4) Conclusions: Boys showed higher levels of adherence to the Mediterranean diet adherence, while girls reported higher family functionality. Thus, compliance with the minimum recommendations for physical activity engagement was associated with adequate adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The importance of diet for obtaining an optimal physical condition, adequate emotional state, and family functionality is highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
12 pages, 570 KiB  
Article
Association of Vitamin D Status and Physical Activity with Lipid Profile in Korean Children and Adolescents: A Population-Based Study
by Kyungchul Song, Gihong Park, Youngha Choi, Jun Suk Oh, Han Saem Choi, Junghwan Suh, Ahreum Kwon, Ho-Seong Kim and Hyun Wook Chae
Children 2020, 7(11), 241; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children7110241 - 19 Nov 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2347
Abstract
Dyslipidemia is one of the important influencing factors of cardiovascular health in the youth, and thus, assessment of its etiology is important. We aimed to investigate the association of dyslipidemia with vitamin D and physical activity in Korean children and adolescents. Data of [...] Read more.
Dyslipidemia is one of the important influencing factors of cardiovascular health in the youth, and thus, assessment of its etiology is important. We aimed to investigate the association of dyslipidemia with vitamin D and physical activity in Korean children and adolescents. Data of 3183 subjects aged 12–18 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Participants were divided into subgroups according to sex, body mass index, 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, and lipid profile. The mean 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was 16.15 ng/mL, which was below normal. In total, 79.3% of the subjects had vitamin D deficiency. Females had lower vitamin D levels and a higher incidence of dyslipidemia compared to males. Vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. The low HDL-C group consisted of a higher proportion of subjects with vitamin D deficiency and low physical activity. This study suggests that vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in Korean children and adolescents. Vitamin D deficiency and low physical activity are related with low HDL-C levels. Maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels and physical activity may help prevent dyslipidemia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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15 pages, 491 KiB  
Article
The Nutritional Profile of Food Advertising for School-Aged Children via Television: A Longitudinal Approach
by Daniel Campos, Mireia Escudero-Marín, Camila M. Snitman, Francisco J. Torres-Espínola, Hatim Azaryah, Andrés Catena and Cristina Campoy
Children 2020, 7(11), 230; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children7110230 - 17 Nov 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2597
Abstract
The prevalence of childhood obesity continues to increase. Screen time, one of the most documented reasons for the obesogenic environment, enhances childhood obesity, since advertisements for unhealthy food products are still broadcast on channels for children. This is presently one of the main [...] Read more.
The prevalence of childhood obesity continues to increase. Screen time, one of the most documented reasons for the obesogenic environment, enhances childhood obesity, since advertisements for unhealthy food products are still broadcast on channels for children. This is presently one of the main challenges for the government in Spain, since the current laws and obligations are not updated. This study aims to analyze food advertising aimed at children on Spanish television in 2013 and 2018 on children’s and general channels to test the effect of laws and obligations over time. In total, we viewed 512 h of the most viewed channels, two children’s and two general channels, during the week and on weekends during specific periods of 2013 and 2018. Food advertising was categorized as core, non-core, and other food advertisement (CFA, NCFA, and OFA, respectively) according to the nutritional profile. A total of 2935 adverts were analyzed, 1263 in 2013 and 1672 in 2018. A higher proportion of NCFAs were broadcast on children’s channels than in prior years, rising from 52.2% to 69.8% (p < 0.001). Nowadays, the risk of watching NCFAs on children’s channels compared to general channels turns out to be higher (Odds ratio > 2.5; p < 0.001), due to exposure to adverts for high-sugar and high-fat foods such as cakes, muffins, cookies, and fried and frozen meals rich in fat. In conclusion, the trends of nutritional profiles in food advertising on television are worsening over time, since the prevalence of NCFAs was higher in 2018 than in 2013. Currently, CFAs are not mainly broadcast on children’s channels, confirming high-risk exposure to non-core food advertising by watching them. Thus, food advertising laws and obligations should be adapted to increase compliance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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Review

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12 pages, 1156 KiB  
Review
A Review of Experiential School-Based Culinary Interventions for 5–12-Year-Old Children
by Annemarie E. Bennett, David Mockler, Cara Cunningham, Corina Glennon-Slattery and Charlotte Johnston Molloy
Children 2021, 8(12), 1080; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/children8121080 - 23 Nov 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2923
Abstract
Cooking is an essential skill and the acquisition of cooking skills at an early age is associated with higher diet quality. This review aimed to describe the characteristics of school-based experiential culinary interventions and to determine the value of these to child (5–12 [...] Read more.
Cooking is an essential skill and the acquisition of cooking skills at an early age is associated with higher diet quality. This review aimed to describe the characteristics of school-based experiential culinary interventions and to determine the value of these to child (5–12 years) health outcomes. Interventions were eligible for inclusion if they took place in school during school hours, included ≥3 classes, and had a control group. Interventions published up to May 2021 were included. The databases searched were PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE, and the grey literature was searched for published reports. The search strategy yielded 7222 articles. After screening, five published studies remained for analysis. Four studies targeted children aged 7–11 years, and one targeted children aged 5–12 years. The interventions included food tasting, food gardening, and/or nutrition education alongside experiential cooking opportunities. Improvements were evident in self-reported attitudes toward vegetables, fruits, and cooking, and two studies reported small objective increases in vegetable intake. School-based experiential cookery interventions have the potential to positively impact health-related aspects of the relationship children develop with food. However, a greater number of long-term methodologically rigorous interventions are needed to definitively quantify the benefits of such interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Research in Childhood Nutrition)
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