Characterizing the Nutritional Health of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth

Abstract

ObjectiveThere is a dearth of information about the nutritional health of homeless youth, a population considered one of the most vulnerable within society. Nutritional health influences the risk for poorer physical and mental health outcomes. Homeless youth experience various health challenges that could be related to their nutritional health. The goal of this study is to describe the nutritional and dietary status of a sample of homeless youth in a Midwestern city in the United States.MethodsAn observational study of homeless youth was conducted. Youth were recruited from a local drop‐in center in Columbus, Ohio. After providing informed consent, data on socio‐demographic characteristics and dietary intake was collected. Dietary intake data was based on 24‐hour dietary recalls collected on two nonconsecutive days. Anthropometric and body composition measurements were also assessed. Nutrient intakes were adjusted to usual intake and compared to Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for age and gender to determine adequacy of intakes. Descriptive statistics were used in characterizing the sample.ResultsOf the 36 participants with currently available data, ages ranged from 18–24 years (median of 21). A similar number of participants identified themselves as African American (39%, n=14) and White (42%, n=15). One‐quarter are female and 36% indicated some form of employment. Eight percent are underweight and 44% (95% CI: 27.9%–61.9%) are overweight or obese (BMI≥25). Average usual energy intake is 1861 ± 757 kcal. More than 85% of the sample have inadequate intakes of calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin C, with 100% not consuming adequate amounts of vitamins D and E.ConclusionInadequate nutrient intake as well as overweight and obesity are prevalent among homeless youth. Our findings support consequences of difficulty with food access reported within this population. Inadequate intake of essential nutrients may expose homeless youth to poor physical and mental health outcomes.Support or Funding InformationThis study was funded by The Ohio State University, College of Education and Human Ecology, Faculty Seed Grant and by Grant #UL1TR001070.