Dietary intake, diet quality and nutritional status of homeless children: A cross-sectional study
doi.org/10.31246/mjn-2023-0065
- Author:
Kar Wen Yong
1
;
Asma’ Ali
1
;
Hayati Mohd Yusof
1
;
Aziz Yusof
1
;
Michelle Mun Chieng Tan
2
Author Information
1. Department of Food Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Food Science, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia; 2Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK;
2. Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Department of Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK; Global Public Health and South East Asia Community Observatory (SEACO), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University, Sunway Campus, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
dietary intake;
diet quality;
homeless children;
Malaysia;
nutritional status
- From:
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
2024;30(3):297-307
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The increasing number of homeless children is concerning. This
study aimed to assess the dietary intake, diet quality, and nutritional status of
homeless children in Klang Valley, as well as the relationship between diet quality
and nutritional status. Methods: Approximately 120 homeless children aged 7 to
12 years from four locations in Klang Valley were enrolled. Their dietary intake
and nutritional status were assessed using a two-day 24-hour dietary recall and
body mass index-for-age, respectively. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) was used to
examine diet quality. Results: Prevalence of normal weight respondents was 58.3%
(mean±SD: -0.79±1.80), with 25.0% classified as moderately and severely thin. Mean
energy intake was significantly lower than recommended nutrient intakes (RNI)
(p<0.050), while protein intake was higher (p<0.050). Calcium and zinc intakes
were also significantly lower (p<0.001). Boys aged 7-9 years had significantly higher
iron intake (median=11.6, IQR=8.7 mg, p=0.003), whereas girls aged 10-12 years
had significantly lower intakes of iron (mean±SD=11.4±5.1, 11.1±4.7) and vitamin A
(median=416.6, IQR=450.4 µgRE, p<0.001 for both). Mean HEI score was 51.30±6.78,
indicating a need for diet quality improvement. No significant association between
diet quality and nutritional status was observed (p=0.380). Conclusion: This study
provided insights into dietary intake, diet quality, and nutritional status of homeless
children. Further research is vital to shape evidence-based nutrition interventions.
- Full text:202601131552084711Vol 30(3) 2.mjn.2023.0065 Ali.pdf
