Trends in dietary intake of sugars of 10-year-old children from 1973 to 1988: The bogalusa heart study

Abstract

Trends in dietary intakes of total sugar of 10-year-old children were examined from 1973 to 1988 across six cross-sectional surveys. For whites only, a significant positive trend was shown in intakes of total sugar. A significant positive trend was observed in intakes of fructose with a negative trend in sucrose intakes. The total grams of fruits/fruit juices consumed significantly increased (p<0.05), reflecting an increase in the percent contribution to sucrose intake. The grams of desserts and candy consumed significantly decreased (P<0.05), reflecting a decrease in percent contribution to sucrose and fructose intakes. Total grams of milk consumed significantly decreased (p<0.001), with changes shown in the percent contribution to sucrose (decreasing) and to fructose (increasing) intakes. Negative correlations were shown between intakes of total sugar, sucrose and fructose with intakes of protein, fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, niacin, iron and vitamin E, and positive correlations for majority of the vitamins and minerals. Negative correlations were observed between intakes of sucrose and intakes of vitamins D and B - 12, riboflavin, potassium, and magnesium. Before any guidelines are established for total sugar intakes, careful consideration of the type of sugar consumed, along with changes in the sugar composition of the food supply, is warranted.