Trends in dietary intake of total fat and fatty acids among Korean adolescents from 2007 to 2017

Abstract

We analyzed the trends in dietary intake of total fat and fatty acids among Korean adolescents during 2007–2017. A total of 6406 adolescents from the 2007–2017 Korea National Health and Examination Surveys were selected. Total fat and fatty acids intakes were calculated based on single 24‐hour recall data and presented as grams (g) and percentage of energy intake (%kcal) across the survey period. Linear trends in intake across the survey period were compared using the multiple regression model. Total fat intake increased during the 11‐year period from 54.3 g (21.7% kcal) to 61.8 g (25.2% kcal). Saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) intakes changed from 17.8 g (7.1% kcal) and 17.2 g (6.8% kcal) to 20.6 g (8.4% kcal) and 20.7 g (8.4% kcal) over time, respectively. For polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), n‐3 fatty acid intake did not change during the survey period. The proportions of individuals who had total fat and SFA above the recommendations increased across the survey period: 13.7% to 27.5% for total fat and 36.0% to 49.7% for SFA. Among Korean adolescents, dietary fat intake increased over time and the increases in SFA and MUFA intake were prominent. Monitoring dietary fat intake is helpful to suggest dietary guidelines and health policies.