Dietary Intake of Macro- and Micronutrients in children: Comparison with Reference Values

Abstract

Background: One of the most important factors in maintaining and improving children's health is the quality of diet. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the micro and macro nutrient intakes in children aged less than five years old with malnutrition. Methods: The cross-sectional study included 75 under-five children referring to primary health care center in Taft. Children classified in two groups by nutritional status according to a variety of anthropometric indicators. Food intake was assessed using 24 hour food recalls and then was compared to the recommended daily amount (RDA). Anthropometric measures of age, height/length and weight and measurements head circumference were obtained and compared with reference anthropometric indices to assess nutritional status Results: The subjects consisted of 41 boys and 34 girls who were 36 (48%) in the malnourished group and 39 (52%) in another group. The analysis of food intake indicated that most micronutrients were within recommendations, except for calcium, zinc, iron and folate (P<0. 05). The intake of macronutrients, was above recommendations and energy intake was in the general appropriate level. Conclusion: The findings of the study indicated that the appropriate level of macronutrients intake was used and the problem was mainly existed in micronutrients’ consumption. Based on the results we recommended planning for nutrition education program.