Regional Features in Evaluating Nutrition and Health Conditions of Children and Adolescents

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The frequency of breakfast consumption as a determinant of fruit and vegetable intake among children and adolescents has been poorly investigated.
 AIM: In this article, we examine whether irregular food intake is associated with fruit and vegetable intake among children and adolescents.
 METHODS: We use a separate analysis, with special attention being paid to the potentially changing effects of gender and age. The methodology of health behavior in school-aged children is used.
 RESULTS: The obtained results show that irregular breakfast consumption among children and adolescents is associated with a low frequency of fruit and vegetable intake and that gender and age can play a decisive role. Various associations observed in different age and gender groups indicate the importance of a separate analysis of fruit and vegetable intake and types of food.
 CONCLUSION: The results emphasize the importance of encouraging regular food intake while trying to increase fruit and vegetable intake among children and adolescents.