engleski

Green foods in the nutrition of younger school-age children

Children’s nutrition includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, preferably of different colors. The aim of this research was to determine the nourishment of early school-age children, the amount of food they eat and do they like fruits and vegetables and what are their experiences and knowledge about green foods. Data for this research was collected using an online survey for the parents in which 698 pupils of 1st to 4th grade of primary school were included from all over the Republic of Croatia. The questionnaire consisted of 15 questions divided into four groups which were related to daily meals, fast food, sweets and fruits and vegetables. The results showed that the majority of pupils (47%) eat four times a day, while others eat more times a day. Among other results, children generally considered (52%) that green vegetables are healthy food they like to eat, while 37% (259 students) eat only certain green vegetables. Children mostly prefer apples (96%) and pears (83%). Pupils and parents are aware of the importance of green fruits and vegetables in their nutrition which are sufficiently represented in their diet. The majority of parents (92%) believe that they themselves have the greatest influence on the diet of their child. Parents should have a healthy and balanced diet and thus be a role models for their children because in this way they transmit proper eating habits to their children.

green foods ; healthy diet ; younger school-age children ; nutrition

nije evidentirano