Abstract

RODA, Gisela; SALVADOR CABRERA, Silvina; CAMPISI, Mariana  and  AMATO, Daiana. Poll results of dietary habits and family history in Child Development Centers, Municipality of Merlo. Diaeta [online]. 2016, vol.34, n.155, pp.41-47. ISSN 1852-7337.

Introduction: According to the latest National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENNyS 2005) in Argentina, the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children aged 6-60 months is 31.5% and 10.4%, respectively. This reality motivated, among other reasons, the implementation of the project "Promotion of healthy habits in children attending five- year- old kindergarten in Child Development Centers (CDC) of the Municipality of Merlo", which was preceded by a survey on habits and family history. Objectives: To describe the usual frequency of consumption of foods and drinks in 5-year- old children attending CDC in Merlo, Buenos Aires. To research the existence of a family history of diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, overweight and obesity within this population. And, to know and record the level of physical activity done by these children. Materials and Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out. The total amount of parents/guardians surveyed was 183 (70% of the population). A questionnaire of 10 closed questions and a frequency table of consumption including 44 foods, divided in 22 groups, was used for data collection. The results obtained were compared to the recommendations given by the Dietary Guidelines for Argentinian population (2003). Results: Children’s feeding lacked dairy products, fish, legumes, fruits and vegetables and was excessive in terms of candies, cookies, soft drinks and juices, compared to the recommendations given by the Dietary Guidelines for Argentinian population (2003). In relation to the degree of physical activity, only 8% of the children had scheduled physical activity and 40% spent more than 2 hours per day in front of screens (TV, computers, video games, etc). Discussion and Conclusions: Given the excess of foods rich in dispensable calories and the low intake of foods rich in vitamins and minerals, it is necessary to implement actions aimed at improving the quality and harmony of food, as well as increasing physical activity proposals aimed at these children.

Keywords : Child’s overweight and obesity; Eating habits; Food consumption; Child Development Centers.

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