Dietary analysis and nutritional status in schoolchildren from Hualpen county

The aim of this study was to elaborate a dietary analysis of the school students from two municipal primary schools from Hualpen county and its relationship to their nutritional status. The study was conducted with students from first to fifth grade. The total population corresponded to 160 students whose mothers were surveyed using a 24-hours dietary recall in 2 non-consecutive days between 2008 and 2010. Both nutritional status and body mass index (Kg/m2) were assessed. Results indicate that the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 17.4% and 14.2%, respectively, in 2008, and 16.8% and 31.5%, respectively, in 2010. The average energy adequacy was 115.6% and 95.2% in years 2008 and 2010, respectively. The major deficiencies were presented in the vitamins of the B complex, calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc, as a result of the deficient consumption of fruits, vegetables, dairy products and legumes. 100% of the mothers declared the consumption of four daily meals. On the other hand, 97.6% of them stated that their children eat breakfast at home. It is concluded that the analyzed diet is insufficient and does not correlate to the nutritional status.