Eating habits in children of preschool age from Katowice

Background. Preschool period is an important stage in child’s life. Numerous studies have shown that proper preschool nutrition is crucial to the health of an adult. Objectives. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of parents and kindergartens on formation the dietary habits of children. The nutritional behavior of children during this period was also analyzed. Material and methods. The study was conducted in 6 randomly selected kindergartens in Katowice. It involved 100 parents of children aged 3–6 years. The research method was a survey, which concerned a methods of feeding children attending kindergartens. In addition, qualitative analysis also covered the menus from the same institutions. Results. There was a significant relationship between specific eating behaviors and BMI. Children with abnormal BMI, especially those with excessive body weight, consumed sweets or fast food more frequently than healthy children. Among children with normal BMI fruit and vegetable intake was higher than among children with abnormal body weight. Analysis of menus in kindergarten demonstrated insufficient supply of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, as well as an excessive amount of simple sugars and highly processed foods. Conclusions. Despite the abnormal eating habits and irregularities in meals of preschool children, most parents were satisfied with meals their children received in the kindergartens. This indicates that parents are not sufficiently aware of the role of proper nutrition of preschool children and do not know the basics of preparing meals. The results show the need to conduct educational activities for both parents and kindergarten staff.