Changes in Food Consumption, BMI, and Body Composition in Youth in the US during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

ABSTRACT: Rates of childhood overweight/obesity have risen for decades; however, data show the prevalence increased at a faster rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic-associated increases in youth's body mass index (BMI; kg/m²) have been attributed to decreases in reported physical activity; few studies have examined changes in food intake. We therefore examined changes in total energy, nutrient consumption, BMI, BMIz, and adiposity longitudinally over 3 years, comparing healthy youth aged 8-17 years assessed twice prior to the pandemic, to youth seen once before and once during the pandemic. The total energy intake and percent macronutrient consumption were assessed using a standardized, laboratory-based, buffet-style meal. Height and weight were measured and adiposity was collected

SUBMITTER: Moursi N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10531233 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature