Children’s Executive Function and High-Calorie, Low-Nutrient Food Intake: Mediating Effects of Child-Perceived Adult Fast Food Intake

Abstract

Objective. This study tested the relationships among child executive function (EF), child-perceived parent fast food intake, and child self-reported subsequent consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient (HCLN) food. Design. One year and 6-month longitudinal observation from a larger randomized controlled trial. Setting. Southern California elementary schools. Participants. Fourth- and fifth-grade children (N = 1,005) participating in the Pathways to Health obesity prevention program. Results. Child EF problems were associated with higher concurrent HCLN intake (B = 0.29, SE = 0.10, p