A Study on the Meal Patterns of Obese Children Using Photo Analysis Based on the Korean Food Guide

Abstract

This study analyzed the eating patterns of 96 elementary school students who participated in the Busan nutrition camp in August 2020. For the food intake survey, the subjects were provided with the same plate, and the names of the food and pictures taken before and after the meal were provided. Food intake was analyzed by serving size (1 serving size) and representative nutritional value of representative foods for each of the six food groups in the recommended menu. The subjects of the survey were 16.7% normal weight, 30.2% overweight, and 53.1% obese. Children of normal weight showed significantly (P<0.01) higher vegetable intake than overweight and obese children, and there was no significant difference in the rest of the food groups. In terms of daily nutrient intake, the intake of dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C was significantly (P<0.05) higher in normal-weight children than in overweight and obese children. Compared to overweight and obese children, normal-weight children had significantly higher intakes of braised food (P<0.05) and seasoned vegetables (P<0.01), and there was no significant difference in the remaining 22 foods. Through these results, it was analyzed that the intake of dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C was lower in overweight and obese children than in children of normal weight because they did not consume excessive energy and oil-cooked food and consumed less vegetables. Therefore, it is intended to prepare a plan to increase vegetable intake for obese children and to recognize the need for continuous nutrition education and counseling.