[Food patterns of youth from gymnasium and lyceum].

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescents are the most vulnerable for the impact of improper nutrition. The mode of nutrition is one of the factor influencing the proper development and growth of young organism and the maintenance of good health until advanced old age.

OBJECTIVE

The food pattern of youth from selected Warsaw gymnasium and lyceum was evaluated.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Author's questionnaire, 24h interview and Block questionnaire were used.

RESULTS

Irregularity of main meals intake, between meals consumption (sweets and salts snacks mainly and fruits also) as well as tea, fruit juices and mineral water drinking were observed in youth of both schools. More than half of them took cola drinks every day and half of youth drank coffee permanently. The daily ratios of both groups were short in fibre and too rich in fats. Fats intake was more proper among gymnasialists. Youth's daily ration in both types of school were poor in vitamin C, D, E as well as calcium, potassium and magnesium. They were too rich in vitamin A in some cases (7%) over UL. Also, vitamin B2, B6 i B12 and sodium, copper, iron (boys) exceeded recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

No statistically significant differences in food pattern between gymnasium and lyceum youth were observed however in girls the one was more proper. In order to optimise the mode of nutrition the monitoring established on the constant base and education for parents, teachers and adolescents are needed.