An assessment of body composition and lifestyle in children aged from 8 to 10 years

Introduction: The high prevalence of childhood obesity is a public health problem across the world, because it is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate the lifestyle, body composition, and to detect any possible behavioral effects and potential repercussions on the body in children. Methods: 272 children of two primary schools underwent bioimpedence analysis (BIA) to assess their body composition. Information was also collects about their eating habits, exercise and lifestyle, by means of a questionnaire administered. Results: The 19% of children were obese and 32% overweight. In the first group, the fat mass constituted 48% of body weight, while in the second 40%. The 52% of females and 64% of males took part in sports 2-3 times a week. At lunch, pasta was the predominant food, mainly with sauce or vegetables, and 63% had a second dish as well. For evening dinner, a main course was the predominant food 95% and was eaten with bread in 61% of cases. The 18% of children did not eat green vegetables, and 61% did not eat fruit. The average daily intake of bread amounted to 80g and that of water to 1 liter. Discussion: The BMI calculated were in line with those reported in 2014 by the Italian Ministry of Health. The BIA revealed high fat mass, probably correlated to a greater differentiation of the cells into adipocytes, which occurs when excessive food intake happens during the growth phase.