The dietary intake of 2-year-olds born to overweight or obese women and predictors of their body mass index

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Erin Street (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Cheryl Lovelady

Abstract: The prevalence of overweight among 2-5 year olds has increased from 7.2% in 1988-94 to 13.9% in 2003-2004. Prior research has shown that children of overweight mothers are at increased risk for overweight. The purpose of this study was to determine the dietary intake and predictors of the body mass index (BMI) of 2-year-old children born to overweight/obese mothers. Participants were recruited from the Active Mothers Postpartum study, which sought to promote postpartum weight loss in women who were overweight or obese prior to pregnancy. Infant feeding information was obtained at 12 months postpartum, and a lactation score was calculated. Weight and height measurements were taken at 2 years postpartum on mothers and their children. Two 24-hour dietary recalls were obtained from the mother for their 2-year-old children. Food group and nutrient intakes were compared with MyPyramid and Dietary Reference Intake recommendations. Selected variables were used to determine the predictors of BMI at 2 years of age. Dietary information was provided by 243 participants. Twenty three percent and 22% of the children were at risk for overweight or overweight, respectively. Overweight children consumed more vegetables, 100% juice, and desserts. Recommendations for nutrient intakes were met except for dietary fiber. Overweight children consumed more kcal/d, but normal weight children more kcal/kg body weight. Infant feeding information was provided by 288 participants. Twenty two percent and 25% of the children were at risk for overweight or overweight, respectively. Breastfeeding, maternal education, gender, and birth weight significantly predicted child's BMI. High intensity/duration of breastfeeding, and higher education predicted a decrease in child BMI. Females had a lower BMI than males, and an increased birth weight predicted an increase in child BMI. Increased consumption of desserts and sweets predicted an increase in child BMI, however it was not significant. This research indicates that high intensity/duration of breastfeeding may have an effect on a child's BMI at age 2. Furthermore, the higher kcal/kg intake of normal weight children suggests they are more physically active than the at risk for overweight and overweight children.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 2009
Keywords
Health Sciences, Nutrition
Subjects
Obesity in children $x Etiology.
Obesity in children $x Risk factors.
Obesity $x Nutritional aspects.
Obesity $x Prevention.
Children $x Nutrition.

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