Original Research Article
Year: 2021 | Month: July | Volume: 11 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 374-379
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20210751
Consumption of Hidden Sugars and Fats in Snacks by Adolescents
Ifraah Kulsum Khan1, Asha G2
1MSc Food and Nutrition, Smt VHD Central Institute of Home Science (Autonomous), Department of Food and Nutrition and Research centre, Seshadri Road, Bengaluru -560001
2Assistant Professor, Smt VHD Central Institute of Home Science (Autonomous), Department of Food and Nutrition and Research centre, Seshadri Road, Bengaluru -560001
Corresponding Author: Ifraah Kulsum Khan
ABSTRACT
Adolescent obesity is a leading global problem in the 21st century. It is increasing due to excess snack consumption, low physical activity, not following mindful eating. Objectives of the research were (1) To study consumption of hidden sugars and fats in snacks by adolescents, (2) To conduct market survey of packaged foods and to assess hidden sugar and fat content, (3) To assess dietary pattern and somatic status of subject. Methodology followed was Purposive random sampling of adolescents both girls and boys of age 16-18 years (N=100), questionnaire was constructed and validated, general information, anthropometric measurements and dietary information was collected, data was analysed statistically. Results and findings of this study were as follows, Majority (87) respondents were non-vegetarians and consumed snacks atleast twice daily. 47 respondents skipped breakfast always. 41 percent of respondents overate when hungry due to skipping previous meal. Mean consumption of fat (26 grams) and sugar (28 grams) from snacks. Body mass index reveals that 37 respondents were in normal category, 21 respondents were underweight, waist hip ratio revealed 89 adolescents were obese. 45 respondents were involved in physical activity every day. 21 respondents binged on snacks at midnight as an effect of disturbed sleep. Skipping breakfast, increased the intake of snacks and low physical activity are contributing factors to increased BMI and abdominal obesity which leads to insulin resistance, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, high cholesterol levels and early morbidity in adulthood. There is a dire need for nutrition awareness among adolescence to make healthy food choices.
Key words: adolescent, obesity, snacking, Hidden sugars, fat consumption.