Food Choices and Meal Patterns in Texas School Children
Author Information
Author(s): Pérez Adriana MS, PhD, Hoelscher Deanna M PhD, RD, LD, CNS, Brown Henry Shelton III PhD, Kelder Steven H PhD
Primary Institution: The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Hypothesis
We hypothesized that analysis of food consumption among three age groups of children would result in different patterns.
Conclusion
Children in higher grades consume more unhealthy foods and fewer healthy foods compared to those in lower grades.
Supporting Evidence
- Children in grades 8 and 11 were more likely to consume unhealthy foods compared to 4th graders.
- 4th graders consumed more healthy foods like fruits and yogurt than older students.
- Statistically significant differences in food choice behaviors were evident among the grades.
Takeaway
As kids get older, they tend to eat more junk food and less healthy food like fruits and vegetables.
Methodology
Food consumption patterns were determined using validated data from the School Physical Activity and Nutrition survey, with multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Potential Biases
Self-report recall bias could potentially influence the results.
Limitations
Only one day of diet was measured, which may not capture individual dietary variation.
Participant Demographics
The sample included a diverse population of children from different ethnic backgrounds in Texas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website