Nutritional Status and Eating Patterns in Children and Adolescents: Prevalence, Screening and Prevention of Metabolic Disorders

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 November 2024 | Viewed by 1106

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier, 00133 Rome, Italy
Interests: nutrition and public health; food security; malnutrition; epidemiological surveillance

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier, 00133 Rome, Italy
Interests: epidemiology; global health; nutrition and public health; vaccine hesitancy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The increasing rates of malnutrition in children and adolescents have become a major public health concern, due to its negative effects during this critical period of development and also in adulthood. Within this context, metabolic disorders due to an excess of weight in childhood represent an alarming challenge because children with obesity are prone to remain obese throughout their lives and have an increased morbidity and mortality risk.

Therefore, the screening and assessment of the nutritional status, growth patterns, and eating behavior in children and adolescents are essential for preventing non-communicable diseases at early stages. Scientific research will contribute to updating the epidemiology of nutritional status of children and adolescents in different countries, understanding the diet patterns of new generations worldwide, and spreading information among public health stakeholders and policymakers.

Dr. Stefania Moramarco
Prof. Dr. Ersilia Buonomo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • nutritional assessment
  • food intake
  • eating behaviors
  • metabolic disorders
  • child obesity

Published Papers (2 papers)

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12 pages, 605 KiB  
Article
Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Sleep and Physical Fitness among Young Female Handball Players
by Mohamed Alaeddine Guembri, Ghazi Racil, Mohamed Tounsi, Chirine Aouichaoui, Luca Russo, Gian Mario Migliaccio, Yassine Trabelsi, Nizar Souissi and Johnny Padulo
Children 2024, 11(8), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11080954 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2024
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Abstract
Objectives: This study examines the potential impact of Ramadan fasting on sleep patterns and physical fitness in under 14 (U14) and under 17 (U17) female handball players. Methods: For this study, sixty-five female handball players’ (U14, n = 33 and U17, n = [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study examines the potential impact of Ramadan fasting on sleep patterns and physical fitness in under 14 (U14) and under 17 (U17) female handball players. Methods: For this study, sixty-five female handball players’ (U14, n = 33 and U17, n = 32) sleep habits were assessed before (BR) and during the first (R1) and last weeks (R4) of Ramadan using: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Physical ability tests including balance and jumps were conducted throughout these periods.; Results: During Ramadan, both groups noted significant increases in PSQI and ISI scores during R1 (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) and R4 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively) compared to before Ramadan (BR). For the U14 group, a significant increase occurred in ESS scores during R1 (p < 0.01) and R4 (p < 0.05), whereas for the U17 group, this increase was limited over the R1 period (p < 0.05). In contrast, for all physical ability parameters, both groups showed no significant difference during R1 and R4; Conclusions: During adolescence, Ramadan fasting may alter sleep patterns in young female athletes but appears to have no effect on their performance in short-duration exercises. Full article
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Systematic Review
Nutritional Deficiencies and Associated Oral Health in Adolescents: A Comprehensive Scoping Review
by Man Hung, Amy Blazejewski, Samantha Lee, Johanna Lu, Andres Soto, Connor Schwartz and Amir Mohajeri
Children 2024, 11(7), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11070869 - 18 Jul 2024
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Abstract
Introduction: The shift to processed foods in American diets has increased vitamin and mineral deficiencies among adolescents, impacting growth and health, often manifesting as oral lesions. This review study aimed to explore the link between nutritional deficiencies and adolescent oral health to improve [...] Read more.
Introduction: The shift to processed foods in American diets has increased vitamin and mineral deficiencies among adolescents, impacting growth and health, often manifesting as oral lesions. This review study aimed to explore the link between nutritional deficiencies and adolescent oral health to improve guidance and prevent long-term issues. Methods: A systematic review of literature from 2013 to 2023 was conducted on adolescents aged 10–19 years, using PRISMA guidelines. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source—Ebscohost, and Scopus included peer-reviewed articles, excluding reviews and non-empirical studies. Data were screened and extracted with independent reviews for accuracy. Results: Malnutrition strongly correlates with poor oral health. Undernourished children have a 60% increase in dental caries, exacerbated by high sugar intake. Early malnutrition delays dental eruption, temporarily protecting against caries, while stunting and infections cause enamel defects. Chronic conditions like cerebral palsy and celiac disease worsen oral health, with risks persisting into adulthood. Conclusions: Nutritional deficiencies and oral health are interconnected, requiring integrated healthcare. Early interventions and holistic strategies can improve outcomes and reduce long-term burdens. Comprehensive health education and routine dental evaluations are essential for prevention and treatment, enhancing health across all demographics. Full article
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