Objective. To reveal the dependence of the alimentary factor’s influence on the formation of nutritional status disorders in organized groups of school-age children. Patients and methods. A sample questionnaire and an anthropometric survey of 488 school children aged 8–9 years (group 1), 12–13 years (group 2) and 16–17 years (group 3) were conducted. Nutritional status was analyzed by anthropometric measurements using regional modified regression scales for the Samara Region. The analysis of the results obtained, including the risk of nutritional status disorders, was performed with the use of parametric statistical procedures. Results. Hot school meals were provided to 85.6% of pupils in grades 2–3, to 55.6% of sixth graders and 36.4% of pupils in the senior classes. A rational diet was revealed in 18.3% of cases in the junior school group and only in 7.0% of cases in group 3. The consumption of bread and bakery products, vegetables, fruits, milk, and dairy products increases by high school age. The frequency of fish and seafood consumption in most cases in each age group is limited to a few meals per month. Anthropometric studies showed a significant increase in the proportion of children with nutritional status disorders (underweight or overweight) between the ages of 12 and 17. Conclusion. The risk of nutritional status disorders in the examined children was due to the high frequency of consumption of bakery and confectionery products, decreased consumption of fruits and vegetables, and infrequent meals. Key words: school meals, regimen, nutritional structure, nutritional status
Anthropometric indicators of nutritional status: implications for fitness, activity, and health in school-age children and adolescents from Maputo, Mozambique
