Relationship between snacking and Body Mass Index (BMI) Among Adolescent Girls

Objective. To determine the relationship between snacking behaviors, energy intake, and body mass Index (BMI) among adolescent girls.

Methods. A cross sectional study design with a convenience sample of 240 adolescent girls. The study sample consisted of 35% Mexican American, 34% African American, and 31% non-Hispanic white girls. BMI computed as ratio of weight in kilograms and height in meters squared (kg/m2). Dietary intake including snacks was assessed with a food frequency instrument “Youth/Adolescent Questionnaire” (YAQ). The nutrients of interest in the analyses were protein, carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, calcium, sodium, cholesterol, and sugars. Statistical tests were significant at p < 0.05.

Results. Snacks provided one-fourth of the total energy intake for this study population. Multivariate analyses showed BMI was not significantly associated with energy intake (p = 0.053); but was positively and significantly associated with carbohydrates (p = 0.031), fats (p = 0.027), saturated fat (p = 0.012), and sodium (p = 0.035) consumption from snacks. Protein intake was inversely associated with BMI (p = 0.043). The number of snacking occasions and time of the day of snacking differed significantly by BMI. Overweight girls snacked significantly more by 32% before breakfast and lunch and by 24% at night - (after 9 pm) compared to normal weight girls. The top five snack foods reported were; ice cream, potato chips, candy & nuts, milkshakes, and corn chips. Conclusion. Nutrition education efforts should focus on healthy snack choices among adolescent girls in school and home environments.