Is there any difference in fast food consumption between children with different obesity status in Ardabil-Iran?

Abstract

ObjectiveChanging your lifestyle today has led to changing dietary patterns and greater use of fast foods. This causes changes in the health status of individuals in the community that need to be examined. The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the fast food consumption in children with different obesity status in Ardabil primary schools. MethodsThis descriptive and analytical study was done among 600 children 7–12 years old. Demographic and anthropometric information were obtained using Questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Data were analyzed using logestic regression and T-test. ResultsThe mean age of children in this study was 8.35 ± 1.28. About 400 (66.7%) children had normal weight and 33 (5.5%) children were obese. Approximately 20% (115 subject) had malnutrition or were at risk of malnutrition. The average daily calorie intake of students was 1665.2 ± 100.31 kcal. There was a significant difference in intake of sausages between children with different body mass index. (p < 0.05). Intake of sausage, fruit leather, gummi candy, chips and puffcorn in malnourished children were more than other students (p < 0.05). The amount of consumption of sausages and Pizza in children that had 5 family numbers, were more than other students (p < 0.05). ConclusionThere is a significant difference in the amount of fast foods consumed between children with difference obesity status. The fast food consumption in households with large family number is more than other households.