Free sugar intake and dietary sources in rural Japanese infants aged 18-23 months.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Optimizing sugar intake during early childhood is critical for preventing non-communicable diseases. Although international guidelines recommend limiting free sugar intake, Japan is yet to consolidate data on free sugar intake among children under 2 years of age. This study examined free sugar intake, dietary sources, and associated factors among Japanese children aged 18-23 months.

METHODS AND STUDY

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted among children attending infant health checkups in Kama City, Japan. Caregivers recorded two non-weighed dietary records (one weekday and one Sunday). Free sugar intake, dietary sources, and related factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 84 participants, the mean free sugar intake was 13.3 g/day, corresponding to 5.7% of estimated energy requirements. Overall, 44.0% of children exceeded the World Health Organization recommended level of <5% of energy from free sugar, and 16.7% exceeded the <10% threshold. Major sources included confectioneries (43.2%), fruits including 100% fruit juice (27.3%), dairy products (23.3%), and sweetened beverages (4.6%). Free sugar intake was 37% higher on Sundays than on weekdays. Multivariable analyses showed no significant associations between excessive free sugar intake and demographic or lifestyle characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

A substantial proportion of Japanese infants aged 18-23 months consumed free sugar in excess of World Health Organization recommendations. These findings highlight the need to improve caregiver awareness of major free sugar sources, particularly 100% fruit juice, and support the development of age-specific dietary guidance and pediatric nutrition counseling in Japan.