Dietary Intake and Physical Activity of Overweight and Non‐Overweight Hispanic Adolescents

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare nutrient intake and physical activity (PA) between overweight (n = 57) and non‐overweight (n = 60) Hispanic adolescents aged 12–16 years, recruited by convenience sampling from the area of Miami‐Dade County. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from weight and height. Dietary intakes were assessed using the Block Kids Questionnaire and PA using the Modifiable Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents. Statistical analyses used SPSS and included descriptive statistics and ANCOVA, in which gender, age, and energy intake for dietary analyses were controlled. Physical activity differed between overweight (5.5 hrs) and non‐overweight (13.0 hrs) adolescents, p<.001. Overweight adolescents consumed significantly more energy (1,935 vs. 1,632), had more servings from the Meat food group (2.7 vs. 1.9), and fewer servings from the Fruits (1.2 vs. 1.6) and Milk (0.9 vs. 1.3) food groups, p<.05. In general, both overweight and non‐overweight adolescents had few servings of fruits, vegetables (1.3 and 1.4 servings, respectively), and dairy products, and low intakes of fiber (13.5 and 12.7 g, respectively). Low PA, higher energy and protein intakes, and fewer servings of fruits and dairy products might be associated with overweight in Hispanic adolescents. Interventional studies should aim to increase fruits and vegetables consumption in all adolescents and PA in overweight adolescents.