PhD Scientific Days 2025

Poster Session II. - O: Health Sciences

Assessing Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status in Hungarian Children: Preliminary Findings and Future Directions Using the Healthy Eating Index

Name of the presenter

Sárga Diána

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University Doctoral College, Nestlé Hungary, Budapest Hungary

Authors

Sárga Diána¹, Dr. Biró Lajos, PhD², Veresné Dr. Bálint Márta³

1: Semmelweis University Doctoral College, Nestlé Hungary, Budapest Hungary
2: Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Dietetics and Nutritional Sciences, NutriComp LP, Budapest, Hungary
3: Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Dietetics and Nutritional Sciences, Budapest, Hungary

Text of the abstract

Introduction:
Childhood obesity is a growing public health issue, impacting both physical and mental health. In Hungary, 23% of children aged 4–10 are overweight or obese. This study explores how economic, educational, and regional factors affect children’s nutrition. Using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI), we assess dietary quality and its socioeconomic links. Since no HEI data exist for Hungarian children, our findings will support international comparisons and targeted interventions. HEI analysis is ongoing and will be presented at the conference.

Methods:
A representative survey was conducted among 733 Hungarian children aged 4–10. Data included three-day dietary records, anthropometric data, physical activity, parental attitudes, and socioeconomic status. Statistical methods (ANOVA, Pearson correlation) examined links between BMI, nutrient intake, activity levels, and socioeconomic factors. HEI will further assess diet quality and its associations.

Results:
Preliminary results show higher overweight/obesity rates in western Hungary and the capital. Children from higher-income families were more likely to be overweight. BMI positively correlated with energy intake. Obese children consumed more nutrients and were less active by 4.5 hours/week. No link was found between maternal education and BMI. Regional differences appeared in food group consumption, but fat, sugar intake was high, and fibre, fruit, vegetable intake low nationwide. Food choices were influenced by education and dietary awareness, regardless of income.

Conclusions:
Economic, regional, and educational inequalities influence childhood obesity and dietary habits. Upcoming HEI results will provide a fuller picture of diet quality. Hungary’s position between Western and Eastern food cultures offers unique insights into how socioeconomic and cultural factors shape children’s eating patterns. This knowledge can support global efforts to improve child nutrition and prevent obesity.