Abstract

Interactive effects among eating behavior, obesity and serum lipid levels were studied in 117, 4~12 year old children residing suburban Seoul. Fasting blood samples are obtained and analyzed for serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol(TC), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol(HDL-C) and hematochrit. Obesity was determined by weight for length index(WLI)and the information on eating behavior including food habits and dietary intakes was obtained by questionaire using food record method for 2-consecutive days. Over 40% of children was classified overweight or obese by WIL and children's physical parameters were closely related to those of parents implying genetic influence on obesity. Although it did not reach the statistical significance, there was a tendency of higher TG, TC and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol(LDL-C)levels among girls compared to boys. Blood lipid levels of obese children were similar to those of other groups except TG, which was significantly higher(p<0.05) in obese group. Nutrient intakes seemed adequate in all subjects except iron, calcium and total calorie which were lower than RDAs. Lacking significant relationship between individual nutrient intake and obesity, there was significant correlation between food intake and blood lipid level especially in 10-12 year old group. Vegetable intake was negatively related to TG, LPH(LDL-C/HDL-C) and atherogenic index(AI), and positively to HDL-C. Skipping breakfast and frequent eating out appeared to cause imbalances in nutrient intake. These findings clearly revealed the influence of eating behavior on childhood obesity along with blood lipid profile. To ensure the proper growth and health of these children, devising method and developing media for nutrition education suited to our society should be accomplished first. With well-planned nutrition surveys and thorough intention, childhool obesity could be prevented from progress into adulthood obesity.

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