Dietary intake of younger and older adolescents in Louisiana and their adherence to national dietary recommendations (806.14)

Abstract

During adolescence females undergo physiological changes increasing nutrient needs for development. Previous research has shown that adolescent diet quality decreases with age, failing to meet recommendations set by Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 (DGA2010). This increases the risk for nutrient deficiencies which may affect development and increase risks for young women’s reproductive years. The purpose of this study was to identify intake of food groups and nutrients among adolescent females in Louisiana in accordance with DGA 2010 and determine if intake differences existed between younger (12‐13yrs) and older adolescents (14‐17yrs). For our study, 26 females (ages 12‐17yrs) were recruited from the 2013 Louisiana State 4‐H Fashion Camp. Participants were administered the Block Food Screener for Ages 2‐17 Food Frequency Questionnaire. Food group and nutrient data were grouped by age (12‐13 versus 14‐17 yrs) and compared using a One‐Way ANOVA. No significant differences existed in dietary intake between younger and older adolescents. Intake of protein, fruits, and total fat were within DGA 2010 recommendations. However, intake of vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, protein foods, iron, folate and calcium were inadequate in all adolescents. Future studies should assess reasons for suboptimal nutrient intake among adolescent females in Louisiana so that relevant nutrition education programs can be implemented to increase diet quality.Grant Funding Source: Supported by LSU's Ronald E. McNair Research Scholars program.