Nutritional Status and Nutrient Intake of Children With Feeding Disorders in Early Childhood.

BACKGROUND Proper feeding is a priority in early childhood, specifically below the age of 3 years. Eating disorders are increasingly common in pediatric populations. Inadequate energy and nutrient intake affects children's health and development. Prolonged feeding problems can lead to nutrient deficiencies. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study included children under 3 years of age with feeding disorders and their families. A 3-day food diary and a questionnaire were used for data collection. Participants (n=40) were divided by age into 2 groups: 6 months (from infant feeding) to 1 year, and 1 year to 3 years. Data analysis was performed using NutriComp 5.0 SPORT software, IBM SPSS Statistics 22, with 1-sample and 2-sample t tests. RESULTS The average daily energy intake was below the recommended value in both age groups. Energy intake was 62.5%, within the insufficient intake range. The average energy intake from carbohydrates was above the recommended intake level for both age groups. Energy from added sugar was within the recommended amount. Protein intake was on average at the lower end of the recommended intake level, while energy from fat was below the recommended intake level. Among micronutrients, vitamin B6, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc intake levels were insufficient, while vitamin K intake was excessive. CONCLUSIONS Children under 3 years of age with feeding disorders were characterized by inadequate intake of nutrients in terms of quantity and quality.