The dietary habits and nutritional status of residents in young people's homeless hostels

Abstract

Objective To assess the dietary habits and nutritional status of young people who were temporary residents of homeless hostels. Methods Nutritional intake was assessed using 24-hour recalls. Nutritional status assessment included measuring height, weight, body fat, blood pressure and blood haemoglobin and total cholesterol levels. An informal interview was held with residents to establish general influences on their diet and lifestyle. Sample Fifteen men and 9 women, overall average age 18 years. Results The quality of respondents' diets was poor, consisting mainly of fried, processed food, soft drinks and tea/coffee with added sugar. Respondents had low intakes of a number of nutrients, including protein, non-starch polysaccharide (NSP), calcium, iron, zinc and folate. Energy intakes were also low. Nutritional status assessment revealed no immediate cause for concern. Understanding of basic facts regarding nutrition and healthy eating varied considerably. Conclusion This study highlighted poor nutritional intakes amongst a group of young people who are particularly vulnerable to food poverty, at an age when adequate nutrition is vital to growth and development.