Food consumption and physical activity of schoolchildren in rural Honduras

Abstract

Malnutrition constitutes a substantial problem in the world population. The objective was to identify schoolchildren's food consumption and nutritional status in rural Honduras. It was a cross-sectional descriptive study of 64 schoolchildren from 8 to 12 years of age from the eastern valley of Honduras. Physical activity questionnaires and food consumption records were applied in the last 24 hours were applied. In addition, anthropometric and biochemical measurements were performed. Dietary intake data were analyzed in Food Processor^® and databases in JASP 0.16.3.0^®. The results show that 77.1% carried out physical activity at a moderate level. Deficits in calories, macronutrients, and fiber, and deficiencies in micronutrients (calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C) were identified. The schoolchildren had a high consumption of ultra-processed foods, mainly soft drinks and juices. It was estimated that 96.9% had normal height for their age. The average body mass index was 17.47 kg/m²; 4.7% in malnutrition, 15.6% in risk of overweight and 7.8% in overweight. 7.7% presented anemia. Deficits in the intake of key nutrients and an increase in the trend towards overweight were identified. Interventions are required to promote optimal health in the schoolchildren.