Adherence to the Mediterranean diet in Italian school children (The ZOOM8 Study)

Only 5.0% of 1740 Italian 8-9-year-olds were classified as 'high' adherers to the Mediterranean diet.

• 62.2% of the children showed 'average' adherence, while 32.8% were deemed 'poor' adherers to the Mediterranean diet.
• Low consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and dairy products, along with high intake of commercially baked goods and sweets, contributed to poor adherence.
• One-third of the children reported barriers to consuming fruits, vegetables, and pulses.
• No significant differences in adherence rates were found based on BMI or gender.
• Adherence to the Mediterranean diet improved with factors such as school lunch attendance, enjoyment of school lunches, family breakfast routines, and availability of healthy foods.
• Higher maternal education and lower child screen time were also associated with better adherence.

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