Evaluation of eating habits and unhealthy eating patterns in high-school girls from Varna, Bulgaria

Abstract

Abstract Background Eating habits in children and adolescents are fundamental for their optimal physical and mental health and development. In adolescent girls, adequate nutritional status is paramount for the reproductive system function and reaching peak bone mass. Epidemiological studies have found an increased incidence of unhealthy eating patterns that pose a risk of nutritional deficiencies in adolescents from different European countries. More data is needed on the prevalence of the problem among Bulgarian adolescents, and especially school-aged girls, who are a specific risk group. Methods The study included 226 adolescent girls aged 17-19 from Varna, Bulgaria. Data was collected after receiving informed consent. The methods used include: Anthropometric measurements, including height and weight; Bioelectric impedance analysis using calibrated Tanita BC-420MA (ISSO 9001) and following ESPEN guidelines; Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Results 10% of girls were underweight, 78.5% had normal BMI (18.7-25kg/m2) and 11.5% were overweight/obese. Underweight girls had an average BF%=13.78±4.28, with the lowest BF%=3. Underweight girls had significantly lower consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products. More than half of the underweight group didn't consume vegetables daily (54.5%). 27.7% of the underweight participants consumed whole grain foods every day compared to 42.9% overweight/obese group. 27,2% of underweight girls met the recommendations for consuming daily dairy consumption, compared to 58.1% in the normal BMI and 65.4% in the overweight/obese group. Fish consumption was low in all groups - 13.6% of underweight girls, 17.7% of the participants with normal BMI, and 3.8% in the overweight/obese group consume fish at least twice per week or more. Conclusions Underweight teenage girls have inadequate intake of vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products. The majority of adolescent females do not meet the minimum requirement for fish consumption. Key messages The combination of low body weight and inadequate intake of foods rich in bioavailable calcium are risk factors for not achieving peak bone mass in adolescence. Underweight teenage girls are at an increased risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to inadequate intake of vegetables, whole grains, fish, and dairy products.