Evaluation of Nutrient Intake and Food Consumption among Dutch Toddlers.

Elly Steenbergen,Anne Krijger,Koen F M Joosten,Janneke Verkaik-Kloosterman,Sovianne Ter Borg,Liset E M Elstgeest,Caroline T M Van Rossum

doi:10.3390/nu13051531

Elly Steenbergen, Anne Krijger + Show 5 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13051531

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Abstract

Improving dietary habits at a young age could prevent adverse health outcomes. The aim was to gain insight into the adequacy of the dietary intake of Dutch toddlers, which may provide valuable information for preventive measures. Data obtained from the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey 2012–2016 were used, which included 672 children aged one to three years. Habitual intakes of nutrients were evaluated according to recommendations set by the Dutch Health Council. Specific food groups were evaluated according to the Dutch food-based dietary guidelines. For most nutrients, intakes were estimated to be adequate. High intakes were found for saturated fatty acids, retinol, iodine, copper, zinc, and sodium. No statement could be provided on the adequacy of intakes of alpha-linoleic acids, N-3 fish fatty acids, fiber, and iron. 74% of the toddlers used dietary supplements, and 59% used vitamin D supplements specifically. Total median intakes of vegetables, bread, and milk products were sufficient. Consumption of bread, potatoes and cereals, milk products, fats, and drinks consisted largely of unhealthy products. Consumption of unfavorable products may have been the cause of the observed high and low intakes of several nutrients. Shifting towards a healthier diet that is more in line with the guidelines may positively affect the dietary intake of Dutch toddlers and prevent negative health impacts, also later in life.

Highlights

A healthy diet, characterized by an adequate, safe, and balanced nutritional intake, is pivotal in preserving and promoting overall health throughout the life course [1].Early childhood is a period of rapid growth and development, and a time of great opportunity, yet vulnerability
The present study is part of this project and aimed to identify potential nutritional challenges of Dutch children aged one up until three years, which could be considered to be considered in the screening tool
There was an even distribution of boys and girls, of which the majority had a normal Body mass index (BMI)

Summary

Introduction

A healthy diet, characterized by an adequate, safe, and balanced nutritional intake, is pivotal in preserving and promoting overall health throughout the life course [1].Early childhood is a period of rapid growth and development, and a time of great opportunity, yet vulnerability. A healthy diet, characterized by an adequate, safe, and balanced nutritional intake, is pivotal in preserving and promoting overall health throughout the life course [1]. Nutrition during early life is of special importance and increasingly recognized for its long-term implications [2]. Undernutrition during childhood, defined as insufficient intakes of energy or nutrients, has been linked to short-term consequences, such as impaired growth and development as well as higher infection and mortality risk [3]. Undernutrition is related to later life health consequences, such as the increased risk of diabetes and hypertension. An inadequate diet might have sociodemographic consequences in the long-term, such as lower education level and lower income, due to poorly developed cognitive function [4]. Diet-related health consequences are a major threat in public health in Europe as well as worldwide [8]

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