Comparison of energy and nutrient intakes between weekdays and weekends in Japanese preschool children based on meal categories.

Abstract

Background: Meals are provided at nursery schools for Japanese preschool children, and this may result in different energy and nutrient intakes on weekdays and weekends. The purpose of this study was to obtain basic information for public nutrition policies in early childhood by examining differences in energy and nutrient intakes of preschool children between weekdays and weekends using meal categories such as breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.

Methods: Energy and nutrient intakes were examined in 761 Japanese preschool children (423 boys, 338 girls) aged 3-6 years attending childcare facilities in seven regions in Japan. Data collection was based on non-consecutive four-day dietary records (two weekdays, two weekend days) in 2019 or 2020. Energy and nutrient intake by meal category were compared using a generalized linear mixed model adjusted for demographic factors.

Results: Total energy intake was significantly higher on weekdays for boys (1,478 vs. 1,415 kcal) and girls (1,349 vs. 1,296 kcal) (both P < 0.001). Weekday lunches had higher protein content and essential micronutrients such as potassium, iron, vitamins, and lower fat, saturated fatty acids, and salt, compared to weekend lunches. Similarly, weekday snacks also had significantly higher nutritional consumption for most nutrients compared to weekend equivalents.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that meals at nursery schools, particularly lunch and snacks, result in more desirable nutrient intake in preschool children. On weekdays, children consume meals with higher nutrient density, possibly due to the role of dietitians in menu planning. However, some children still fail to meet the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese, indicating a need for improvements in nursery school and home meals. More communication is needed between nursery schools and families, including sharing menus and recipes is essential. The results of this study are of value for development of public health nutrition strategies targeting early childhood.