Title: Prevalence and Trends of Paleo Diet Adoption Among Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
The Paleo diet has emerged as a means to enhance one’s health, promoting the consumption of unprocessed foods, though it has received insufficient attention regarding use in children.
To analyse the occurrence and factors influencing Paleo diet adherence in children between the ages of 6 to 12 years.
Ample data was gathered from a sample of 25 subjects attending paediatric and dental outpatient clinics in Chennai, India. Information on dietary practices, socio-demographics, and parental impact was gathered using self-administered structured questionnaires. Various statistical techniques that involved chi-square tests and logistic regression were applied to ascertain the underlying predictors of Paleo diet adoption.
Results showed that 52% of participants were males with mean age and BMI of 18.6. There was a notable impact of parental adherence on the dietary choices of the children. Approximately 68% of Paleo households reported having children observing the Paleo diet compared to 24% Paleo household. Socioeconomic standing (SES) also mattered, lower SES and greater Paleo diet adoption.
The study reveals the complex interrelationship of family, socio-economic, and geo-political influences on dietary choice among children. It is evident that the Paleo diet is gaining popularity among parents; its nutritional sufficiency for children remains a concern. The study illustrates the need for more focused public health programs aimed at children that promote balanced dietary intake and tailored nutritional policies.
It is suggested that additional research should be carried out to assess the potential health effects resulting from the adoption of the Paleo diet in children.
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