台灣膳食營養評估方法學(2017-2020):發展新型食物頻率問卷及長期追蹤家庭飲食研究

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to clarify the calculation method of sugars, and estimate the intake and correlation of free sugar from the beverages, snacks and desserts between children and their mothers. Methods: In this cohort study, 57 and 40 mother-child pairs were followed up to age 6 and 9 with 24-hour recalls. Free sugar is defined as processed sugars and natural sugar in sweets and fruit juices, and is the sum of the sugars in juices, drinks, and snacks and desserts. Assessment of free sugar is based on packaged foods and several references. Results: The average sugar intake and the percentage of total calories of 6 and 9-year old children are 22.5±14.8g (6.4±4.3%) and 31.6±20.1g (8.0±4.6%). For the consumption of free sugar, “tea drinks” and “breads” are higher contributors. The consumption of free sugar and sugar in drinks are significantly higher at 9 than 6 years old (p<0.05). The correlations of sugar in drinks (r=0.28, p<0.05) and juices (r=0.38, p<0.01) intake are significant between children at 6 and their mothers, but are not significant at 9 years old. Conclusions: Free sugar consumption increased from age 6 to 9 years old. Although the data were below the current recommendations for less 10% of total calories, there was strong relationship between mother and children at 6 years old. Therefore, the development for good eating habit related to sweets and sugars is important.