Objective To analyze the dietary pattern and nutritional status of schoolchildren in Songjiang District of Shanghai for better dietary guidance.
Methods A total of 1 000 schoolchildren in grades 2 to 5 of 5 primary schools in Songjiang District were cluster sampled for a three-consecutive day dietary recall survey. Their nutritional status was evaluated in accordance with Dietary Guidance for Chinese Residents and Chinese Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs).
Results The consumptions of grain, milk, and beans were lower than reference intakes, while those of animal products and oils were higher. The consumption of snacks which were rich in calories only was prevailing. Their energy intakes were lower than DRIs, and the proportions of energy derived from carbohydrate and protein were lower and higher respectively. The intakes of some nutrients such as calcium, zinc, and vitamin A were much less than DRIs.
Conclusion The survey found insufficient dietary energy intakes, poor dietary patterns and imbalanced intakes of nutrients among these schoolchildren in Songjiang. Health education on rational dietary patterns should be strengthened in this population.
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