Yonadam, Lilianna2013-11-072013-11-0720112011Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 50-01, page: 0380.http://hdl.handle.net/10393/28918http://dx.doi.org/10.20381/ruor-13785The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide. The diets of children have shifted from nutrient-dense foods to energy-dense, nutrient-dilute foods. Using data from the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development, this study aims to identify the nutritional factors related to BMI at 4 and 6 years and weight change from 4 to 6 years. This study also compares the diets of normal and overweight/obese children according to the DRI standards set by Health Canada. Associations were examined using chi-square tests, and multivariate linear and logistic regressions. The nutrition variables which appear to consistently be associated with overweight and/or BMI are linolenic acid, saturated fat and grain products. A significant difference in linolenic acid, phosphorous and iron was found between healthy weight and overweight/obese children. Also, meeting the DRI recommendations of various nutrients differs among children from various demographic and socioeconomic groups.212 p.enHealth Sciences, Nutrition.Health Sciences, Epidemiology.Thesis