Nutritional analysis of school-age children

Abstract

Many studies demonstrate an increase in the number of diseases, the development of which can be influenced by poor nutrition in school-age children.Purpose. To improve the prevention of children’s health disorders by developing an algorithm for the optimal qualitative and quantitative composition of school meals based on the identified deficiencies in the nutrition of schoolchildren of three educational school sin Cheboksary.Methods. 212parents of pupils of the 3-4th grades and 248 pupils, 182 parents of pupils of the 10-11 grades and 220 children in these classes were anonymously surveyed in education schools in Cheboksary.Results. Analysis of the nutritional quality of children showed that more than 90% of both junior and senior schoolchildren consume baked goods, meat dishes, cereals, soups, fruits and vegetables every day or several times a week. About 50% or more of children of both groups consume milk and sour-milk drinks, eggs, cottage cheese, fish dishes every day or several times a week. The meal regimen is more accurately followed in the primary school group. Parents of the junior and senior pupils are unanimous in their opinion about the need to teach children in school the principles of proper nutrition (96,4%).Conclusion. The authors advise to conduct educational work among children and their parents on the formation of healthy nutrition culture. Pedagogical and medical workers of the educational institution, nutritional specialists among the parents can be involved for the implementation of educational activities.