Differences in Danish children's diet quality on weekdays v. weekend days

Berit Worm Rothausen, Jeppe Matthiessen, Camilla Hoppe, Per B. Brockhoff, Lene F. Andersen, Inge Tetens

Research output: Journal Article or Conference Article in JournalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

To compare differences in children's diet quality on weekdays (Monday–Thursday), Fridays and weekend days.
For both genders in all age groups (P < 0·05), energy intake was higher during weekends than on weekdays, and intakes of sugar-sweetened beverages and white bread were higher, whereas intake of rye bread was lower. This contributed to a higher percentage of energy from added sugars, a lower fibre content and a higher energy density on weekend days v. weekdays. In children aged 4–6 and 7–10 years, the diet on weekend days was also characterized by higher intakes of sweets and chocolate and lower intakes of fruit and vegetables. Overall, the diet on Fridays appeared as a mix of the diets on weekdays and weekend days. Significant differences and distinct characteristic patterns were found in children's diet quality during weekdays, Fridays and weekend days. The present study suggests that in prevention of childhood overweight and obesity, more attention should be paid to the higher energy intake, especially from sugar-rich foods and beverages, on Fridays and weekend days.
Original languageEnglish
JournalPublic Health Nutrition
Volume15
Issue number9
Pages (from-to)1653-1660
ISSN1368-9800
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Dietary assessment
  • Food record
  • Week

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