Evaluation of Dietary Behavior among Elementary School Students in Seoul Area Using Nutrition Quotient for Children

Abstract

This study investigated the food behavior and nutritional status of children using the Nutrition Quotient (NQ). The subjects for this study were 974 students and their parents who lived in Seocho-gu, Gwanak-gu, and Dongjak-gu, Seoul. The average NQ score of the subjects was 68.3, which was a medium grade. The mean scores for balance and moderation were above the thresholds, whereas the mean scores for diversity, regularity, and practice did not reach the thresholds. According to the results of evaluation by NQ, the subjects may have insufficient intake of calcium, iron, potassium, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C. NQ and NQ factors were different according to the general characteristics and home background characteristics of the subjects. The mean scores for the moderation factor was significantly lower as the eating out frequency increased (p<0.001). The mean scores for balance, moderation, and regularity factors were significantly higher, with higher parents educational level. It is necessary to choose diverse side dishes, vegetables and also foods with balanced nutrition when eating out.