Trends in nutrient intake of 10-year-old children over two decades (1973-1994) The Bogalusa Heart Study

Dietary intakes of 10-year-old children were examined in seven cross-sectio nal surveys to observe secular trends in nutrient intake and food consumpti on patterns over 2 decades (1973-1994). Total energy intake remained unchan ged from 1973 to 1994. However, when expressed as energy per kilogram body weight, intake decreased from 65.5 kcal in 1973 to 55.4 kcal in 1994 becaus e children's weight increased. A significant trend was noted in ponderal in dex, which increased from 12.31 (1973-1974) to 13.71 (1992-1994), with an a ctual weight gain of 1.45 kg from 1973 to 1979 and 2.71 kg from 1981 to 199 4. Linear trends also were noted for total fat (negative), saturated fat (n egative), dietary cholesterol (negative), polyunsaturated fat (positive), a nd total carbohydrate (positive). There was a significant increase in perce nt energy from protein and carbohydrate and a significant decrease in perce nt energy from fat, primarily saturated and monounsaturated fat. Trends in nutrient intakes of children reflected trends in food consumption. The perc entage of total fat from fats/oils, mixed meats, eggs, milk, pork, and dess erts decreased, while that from poultry, cheese, and snacks increased. Alth ough more children met dietary recommendations for total fat, saturated fat , and dietary cholesterol, the vast majority continued to exceed prudent di et recommendations.