Examining the Relationship Between Schoolchildren's Physical Activity and Nutrition Status

Abstract

Objective: Nutritional status of school children can be supported through physical activity. However, today, especially in Turkey, the nutritional status of school children is worrying. This study aimed for an inspection of the relationship between the physical activity of school children and their nutrition status. Methods: The study was planned in a descriptive-correlational manner. The sample of the study constituted 339 students aged 10-14 from a province center located in Turkey’s eastern region. The data was collected through the Socio-Demographic Information Form, the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children and the Mediterranean diet quality index. Results: Of the students participating in the study, 56.9% of them were male and 48.1% were studying in the 8th grade. Male students' physical activity levels (2.21±0.61) and Mediterranean diet adaptation scores (3.44±2.14) were higher than female students. A low statistically significant relationship in the positive direction between Physical Activity and Mediterranean Diet (r=0.175, p<0.001) was determined. Conclusion: In the current study, there was a low correlation between physical activity as well as sociodemographic factors and adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Therefore, health education can be given in schools about balanced nutrition to support the physical activities of students.