Adolescent snacks: nutrient density and nutritional contribution to total intake
1987
Bigler-Doughten, S. | Jenkins, R.M.
Extract: This research determined frequency of teenage snacking and the contribution of snacks to the total adolescent nutrient profile by comparing the nutrient density (expressed as intake/100 kcal) of snacks and nutrient density of meals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's 1977-78 Nationwide Food Consumption Survey computer-available database provided a sample of sufficient size to generate valid results that would be compared with previous survey results. Sample population consisted of 670 girls and 648 boys, ages 11 to 18. Snacks provided one-fourth to one-third of the energy intake for the population surveyed and it is important that those calories are accompanied by significant quantities of other nutrients. For 80% of the adolescent population, snacks did make substantial nutrient contributions. This was especially true for magnesium, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The nutrient density of snacks was comparable to that of meals for calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C. In view of this evidence, the nutritional contribution of snacks to the adolescent population should no longer be regarded as a liability to the total nutrient intake but rather as a potential asset.
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