| This study examined nutrient intake, frequently consumed foods, and child care participation of adolescents 12–16 years old. Data from NHANES III were utilized. Revised CDC growth charts were used to group adolescents (n = 2,018) into two groups; ‘not at risk’ for overweight (<85 th percentile) or ‘at risk’ for overweight (≥85 th percentile). SUDAAN software was used to test for differences among groups using chi-square and t-test analyses. ‘At risk’ adolescents were more likely to diet, less likely to consume breakfast and attend child care, and reported more salted and sweet snacks, fruit drinks and sodas, and fewer fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products. In general, adolescents consumed more fat, saturated fat, sodium, and less dietary fiber, folate, and calcium than current dietary recommendations. Results will provide federal agencies with information regarding relationships between nutrient intake, frequently consumed foods, child care participation, and risk for overweight to assist with policy planning. |
